Alexandra Malinowski

Campus

St. George (downtown)

CSB Appointment

Teaching

Research Areas

Science Pedagogy

Education

Ph.D. University of Toronto 2023
BSc Western University 2017

Primary Undergraduate Department

Cell & Systems Biology

Research Description

My teaching and research are centred on enhancing student learning and professional development in genetics and the life sciences. I am interested in approaches that encourage students to become active participants in their own learning and to develop the skills necessary to navigate an increasingly complex scientific landscape.

I completed the Association of College and University Educators (ACUE) Certificate in Effective Teaching Practices, a program that explores evidence-based instructional strategies. Drawing on peer-reviewed educational research, I implement practices that help create effective and supportive learning environments for students. Current areas of interest include developing peer-to-peer tutoring initiatives that cultivate collaborative learning, strengthening undergraduate learning by improving Teaching Assistant training and helping students critically analyze AI-generated content.

I am also interested in creating opportunities for students to connect classroom learning with real-world applications. I incorporate experiential learning components that allow students to develop transferable skills by working with community partners. The course instructors and I have been awarded funding to further develop work-integrated learning opportunities. Additionally, I am collaborating with colleagues on a LEAF-funded initiative to develop adaptable coding modules for use across life science courses. This work aims to strengthen students’ computational skills while providing opportunities to integrate data analysis into biological learning contexts.

I have also contributed to broader conversations around undergraduate education through participation in yearly conferences such as the UofT Teaching and Learning Showcase and Symposium and the Ontario Consortium of Undergraduate Biology Educators (oCUBE), collaborating with colleagues who share a commitment to advancing evidence-based teaching practices.