About
Clinical Associate Professor Samantha Beams earned her bachelor’s degree in physical education, teacher certification (K-12), and her master’s degree in education at University of Central Oklahoma. Beams is a National Board Certified Teacher and holds professional memberships with the National Academy of Health and Physical Literacy (NAPHL), SHAPE America, and State OAHPERD Professional Association.
Beams has taught in the exercise and sports science program at The University of Tulsa since 2008. She previously taught in the professional physical education program at universities in Oklahoma and Missouri, taught K-5 and 6-8 physical education in Oklahoma and Missouri, and spent several years coaching basketball and track.
She worked in the field of wellness, health and physical education, physical activity leadership during her time in Missouri and Oklahoma, and developed a career in health and physical education which then extended into higher education. In the courses she teaches, Beams is able to combine her passions for teaching with her extensive experience in health and physical activity, believing strongly in experiential learning, facilitating hands-on learning opportunities, and utilizing case-based education.
Awards and Honors
Beams has received several awards including the OAHPERD Honor Award; The University of Tulsa Oxley College of Health Sciences Excellence in Teaching Award; Faculty Member of the Year-TU Athletics Cane Award. She has worked with state agencies to update Health and Physical Education curriculum, served on review boards for teacher education standards. Over the past 30 years, she has presented at state, district, and national conventions and workshops.
Education
- M.Ed., University of Central Oklahoma
Research interests and areas of expertise
- Personal, social and responsibility
- Influences that impact health across the lifespan
- Positive pedagogy
- Coaching education
- Experiential learning and the integration of outdoor
- In-nature experiences.