Teaching

I teach because I am passionate about helping students achieve their personal and professional goals, but also because I want to cultivate the curiosity that is essential for lifelong learning. Students learn best when they are encouraged to look beyond the course content and begin asking their own questions about the natural world. Across introductory and upper-level courses, I use evidence-based approaches (including active learning, flipped classrooms, project-based learning, and scientific inquiry) to provide opportunities for all students to be active participants in the learning process. I am committed to designing and implementing laboratory and field experiences that allow students to develop hands-on skills in the biological sciences and pursue questions that peak their curiosity. Whether teaching introductory biology, mycology, or marine biology, I strive to create a classroom environment where students have the freedom and tools to explore their interests while developing as scientists. Ultimately, my goal is for students to leave my courses not only knowing more biology, but more curious about the world around them and more confident in their ability to investigate it.