Dr. Tom Jenner joined TASIS in 2021 and currently teaches Ecology and IB Environmental Systems & Societies, having previously instructed General Science, IB Biology, and General Biology courses. With a background in Zoology and a Ph.D. in Animal Behavior focused on animal welfare, Dr. Jenner brings extensive international teaching experience from schools in El Salvador, Mongolia, Sudan, China, and Brazil. His professional journey is complemented by ongoing wildlife research, particularly in ornithology, where he has published numerous findings in academic journals. At TASIS, Dr. Jenner appreciates the well-resourced environment that allows educators freedom in their teaching methods, alongside the school's beautiful campus and engaged student body. His teaching philosophy emphasizes making scientific subjects interesting through hands-on practical activities, which he believes help students better understand and retain complex concepts. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Jenner contributes to the school community through the Global Service Program, where he will lead a trip to Thailand, and by running a recreational table tennis after-school activity.
Dr. Jenner's approach to education extends beyond factual recall to developing broader scientific understanding and analytical skills that students can apply in various fields. He hopes that ten years from now, former students will remember the practical aspects of his classes and the conceptual understanding they gained rather than specific definitions. Outside of teaching, Dr. Jenner maintains a unique balance between bird watching, which he began with his father and brother, and boxing training, which provides a contrasting yet complementary outlet. His perspective on environmental issues has evolved significantly over time, having witnessed the transformation from when ecology was considered an unfashionable field to today's growing environmental awareness. He remains optimistic about continued progress in addressing environmental challenges, contrasting with contemporary pessimism. If not teaching, Dr. Jenner would likely pursue wildlife research or practical conservation, fields that have expanded considerably since his university days. He continually seeks to update his teaching approaches and encourages student questioning as fundamental to the learning process, viewing the current academic year as an opportunity to further develop his involvement with the Global Service Program while refining his classroom methodologies.
