Triantafyllos Bakolas

My degrees: Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics.
All my experience through all these years of studying, internships and working in industries and helping other students have taught me that you do not have to be a super master mind professor in order to understand and comprehend a phenomenon in physics or a theorem in Maths. All you need is to pay attention. You need to be observative. The rest will be simple to accomplish. It is not how much information and stuff do you remember but how to connect them. A math professor I had back in my school years used to say: "The less you remember, the happier you are". A mathematical theorem is based on another one or an axiom. Two different phenomena in Physics are very often described in the same way. That means the same mathematical model. The overview of the general method is quite simple. Categorise and split into chapters and after that enlist all of them in your mind. For example in Maths: Complex numbers, Linear Algebra, Geometry, Calculus, etc. In Physics: Fluid Dynamics, Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, Solid-Rigid Body Dynamics, Oscillations (Mechanical, Electrical), Electromagnetism etc. Something also very important: Use your imagination. If you are able to translate every single sentence in Maths and Physics or even Chemistry into a good drawing or an equation you already have 50% success and in many cases 80%. That means you comprehend the subject. Einstein once said: "Sometimes imagination is more important than knowledge". I say there are both necessary. I can show you how to do it!
To support students effectively, I plan to implement the following strategies:
- Person-Centred Student Support: I will work closely with individual students to identify their specific difficulties and tailor explanations to their learning styles. By providing one-on-one support, I aim to build students’ confidence and help them overcome their challenges in mathematics and statistics.
- Development and Delivery of Workshops: I will design and facilitate interactive workshops in Statistics for postgraduate students and the Graduate School, employing real – world examples and practical activities to enhance engagement and understanding. I will use a variety of teaching techniques, including group discussions, problem-solving sessions, and visual aids, to cater to different learning preferences.
- Resource Creation: I will develop comprehensive, accessible learning materials such as guides, practice exercises, and online resources. My familiarity with MATLAB, Minitab, SAS programming will enable me to incorporate software-based activities and simulations, making abstract concepts more tangible and engaging.
- Promotion of Diverse Teaching Methods: I will incorporate a range of pedagogical approaches—such as collaborative learning, visual representations, and technology-enhanced activities—to create an inclusive and stimulating learning environment. I will also seek feedback from students to continually refine these methods.
- Collaboration and Continuous Improvement: I plan to work collaboratively with colleagues to develop new initiatives and share best practices. Regularly evaluating the effectiveness of support strategies through student feedback and assessment outcomes will ensure that the support provided remains impactful and responsive.