By Torben Haugaard Jensen, AAU Communikation and Public Affairs 

Humor and statistics? Yes, they really do go together.

There is no need to fear statistics if you are taught by Maciej Plocharski, Assistant Professor in the Department of Health Science and Technology at AAU.

So say the students in both the Master’s programme in Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, and the Master's programme in Clinical Science and Technology.

"Against all odds, Maciej can turn statistical analysis into an exciting and fun subject that really facilitates understanding of the subject and its applicability, and motivates you to learn. The best math teaching ever," says one of the anonymous justifications from the students.

Maciej Plocharski views the Teacher of the Year award at the Faculty of Medicine as a great recognition.

"It's a clear message that the students appreciate my teaching. This is the second time I have received the award, and it confirms that the students really like my way of motivating them," says Maciej Plocharski.

Appreciated across programmes

Maciej Plocharski’s research deals with how neural networks can be trained to distinguish Parkinson's patients from healthy patients, and how Alzheimer's can be detected early using machine learning.

When he teaches, he has a special ability to communicate a difficult subject in an easy-to-understand and humorous way, so everyone can follow it.

So what's the secret recipe?

"A teacher has to create a platform where all students are welcome, regardless of their qualifications and skills. I always show them my own enthusiasm for a course and try to convince them that they can do it, even if it’s complicated and difficult," says Maciej Plocharski.

Maciej Plocharski was selected among the candidates for teacher of the year from the various degree programmes at the Faculty of Medicine.

Among other things, the students say that they appreciate his commitment and patience. Maciej always answers questions politely and with an understanding of the different levels and needs of the students.

In the nomination, the students also write about him:

Other teaching staff also honoured

The Study Board for Sports Science and Public Health chose Professor Pascal Madeleine as their favourite teacher while at the Study Board for Medicine the choice went to Lisandra Andrade, Clinical Instructor.

Pascal Madeleine and Lisandra Andrade also received many well-deserved words of praise when the honour was unveiled at the annual New Year's Reception at the Faculty of Medicine.

Translated by LeeAnn Iovanni, AAU Communication and Public Affairs.