Experience:
I instructed a variety of courses as a teaching assistant at
At
Principles of Geology (GEO 111), offered in fall and spring
Geology of the Southwest (GEO 210), offered in alternating January terms
Global Climate Change (GEO 237), offered in alternating fall semesters
Geomorphology (GEO 246), offered in fall semesters
Hydrogeology (GEO 350), offered in alternating spring semesters
Philosophy:
Like most geoscience instructors, I believe in a hands-on approach to teaching undergraduate students basic and advanced concepts in geology. In Geology, teachers are often fortunate to be able to instruct in a laboratory environment where this approach is most effective. Direct interaction between teachers and students in the laboratory setting can help to instill trust and confidence in students, and ultimately lead to a more prolific working environment. It also allows both teachers and students to learn new ways to approach different problems and circumstances, and can ultimately provide students with the confidence and ability to evaluate new experiences and, most importantly, to think for themselves. Teaching students to teach themselves is perhaps the greatest thing an instructor can do.
Although the lecture setting may not be ideal for hands-on teaching, many geoscience instructors use interactive exercises to enhance participation and enthusiasm during lectures. I utilize this approach in teaching Principles of Geology at Gustavus, and have adopted several techniques from contributors to the Cutting Edge website (I participated in the 2005 Early Career workshop).
Awards:
Outstanding Graduate Teaching Assistant,
Outstanding Teaching Assistant, UW Department of Geology and Geophysics, 2003