One of the most effective ways to solve societal problems is through education. As an educator, my primary objective is to provide an educational experience that emphasizes the joy of discovery, while facilitating the development of important life skills. Scientists need to think critically, communicate effectively, and find cross-disciplinary solutions to societal problems. My teaching approach revolves around these objectives.
As an educator, I engage students using an approach that challenges them to take an active role in their education and to become avid members of the learning community. Students are encouraged to consider and incorporate their cultural heritage during projects, which enriches the educational experience of the entire classroom. I believe that including our youth in research is one of the most effective ways to capture their interest in science, therefore I try to provide research opportunities for undergraduate students and encourage them to present their results at scientific conferences.
During college, students develop important life skills that will benefit them in any career, but my teaching approach will encourage some to become science and policy professionals that develop solutions to important societal problems. As an educator, I find this to be very motivating, because my educational influence will not only benefit society, but will also have a positive impact on the world and our global community.
University Teaching Experience
- Introduction to Environmental Sciences (ENV 101), Northern Arizona Univ., Teaching Assistant (1 section)
- Fundamentals of Environmental Sciences (ENV 230), Northern Arizona Univ., Teaching Assistant (10 sections)
- Physical and Chemical Processes in the Environment (ENV 280), Northern Arizona Univ., Teaching Assistant (2 sections)
- Applications of Environmental Sciences (ENV 380), Northern Arizona Univ., Teaching Assistant (1 section)
- Conservation Biology (ENV 540), Northern Arizona Univ., Teaching Assistant (1 section)
Other Teaching Experience
- Professional development workshops, University of Alaska Fairbanks (2013 – 2014); Environmental Protection Agency (2015-2017); Oregon State University (2017-2018)
- Gardening workshops, University of Alaska Fairbanks Community Garden (2012 & 2013)
- Volunteer educator, Environment and Learning Day, Fairbanks, AK (2010)
- Guest Lecturer – Northern Arizona Univ. (2007); Stockholm Univ. (2010); Univ. of Hokkaido (2011); Oregon State Univ. (2016-2017); Portland State Univ. (2018)
- Volunteer educator, Nature Day, Stillwater, OK (2004)
- Science fair judge, Flagstaff AZ (2001 & 2002) and Fairbanks, AK (2010-2014)