Connie Finney

Special Academic Interests

As an educator, I am especially interested in learning and thinking, the psychology behind our school experiences. I’ve studied major theories of learning and am particularly intrigued by how the brain processes information. The content area that I’ve observed these processes most often in is mathematics. I’m interested in problem solving in all areas of  life; as a matter of fact, solving puzzles is a favorite hobby of mine. In addition, I have done a lot of thinking about how the life of the church could be enriched by understanding better how we learn. Exploring these ideas might shed light on how we communicate our faith.

Partnering with Schools

I have helped establish annual Math Day and Division Day events with friends and former students in local schools. I’ve also participated in Math Camp for the past 4 years here at Houghton. My students serve at all these events as learning center coordinators and counselors.  In Spring 2008, I’ll be working at the local BOCES center (Board of Cooperative Educational Services) and learning about the latest initiatives in secondary school curriculum and educational technologies. I’m really excited to gain more insight into the learning process for adolescents.

Recent Professional Activities

In April of 2007, I joined a group of about 50 local educators as we visited the Met School in Providence, RI, part of the Big Picture School movement. These schools use project-based learning, inquiry, internships and unique ways of assessing growth in the lives of their students.

In October 2007, I attended a workshop with Ken Kay who spoke about using 21st Century Skills for Reimaging Education.  I was intrigued to consider a new  image for schools and what is taught there.

Also in October 2007, I attended the Association of Math Teachers of NY State, which held a conference in Rochester. It was a great time to be challenged by new ideas and to meet new people.

In My Spare Time…

I have enjoyed assisting with the women’s field hockey program at Houghton. Field hockey has long been a favorite sport of mine.

Much of my non-college time is dedicated to my church, Sojourners Mennonite Fellowship. Being a Mennonite believer adds great richness to my life! Service projects, pot luck dinners and times to just hang out and talk about life and faith are a treasure to me.

Courses Taught