I teach several classes in the biology department (follow the links at left to visit a webpage for each). In the core sequence, I often teach Bio 101 Biological Principles (occasional Fall semesters) and Bio 102 Organismal Biology (Spring). I also teach Interim Experience courses about every other year, including a course on wolf biology and Ecuadorian natural history. Other courses include upper level Aquatic Biology and Evolutionary Biology; and the nonmajors course Fish & Fisheries.


A few thoughts on teaching

If you are considering taking a class from me, you should know that I strive to make all my classes

Current - science changes very rapidly, and I want to include the latest developments whenever I can.

Easy to Follow - the format of the class should NEVER be confusing. I try to provide sample assignments, prequizzes, etc., so that you know what is expected.

Multifaceted - people learn in many different ways, and I will try to use a combination of humor, analogy, problem-solving, in-class discussion and other techniques to try to help your learning. If you're "not getting it", please come see me!!!!

Rigorous - consistent studying and perfect attendance will NOT guarantee you an A. You need to demonstrate that you can integrate, not just regurgitate, material

Responsive - I commonly include a Student Choice lecture to explore whatever topic you would enjoy learning about. I enjoy the chance to be a student again as well as your teacher. Past student choice lectures have been cancer genomics, carnivorous plant ecology, and whale conservation. Please let me know what interests you!

Experiential - books are limited in what they can teach you. You are to learn by doing whenever possible. Speaking of which,...


Course material not covered in my syllabi

In EVERY SINGLE CLASS I wish for you to learn about personal responsibility, professional courtesy, how numbers and facts can be misused and a greater awareness of the world around you -- and your impacts upon it.

....and when I have become a flawless master of each of these, I will let you know....



Want to learn more?

If you are a professor wanting to discuss course structure and/or share content, or if you are a student wanting general advice on how to succeed in college science classes, please contact me via e-mail facebook Twitter

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Students race for fish in a Bio 383 Aquatic Biology lab on environmental economics.




Joel poses with Pirate, a sled dog from the Jan'08 Wolf Biology course.



2002 cooking demonstration, UF International Gourmet Association