Teaching

I have had success as an educator by engaging students in practical applications of theory. I have found that this catalyzes the creation of a culture which nurtures curiosity and encourages students to take an active role in their learning. This culture cultivates a willingness to be challenged and to think critically in an inclusive, supported environment. I believe that these ends are effectively achieved in two ways: by fostering a collaborative relationship between instructor and students, and by exploring and interacting with natural manifestations of theory.

I believe a collaborative environment—in which students understand that their serious ideas will be considered equally seriously—engages students with different levels of interest in the field and elicits eagerness rather than apprehension. To create a collaborative environment I encourage students to teach a topic of interest, as teaching (a direct, purposeful experience) can also be an effective learning strategy. Providing students with opportunities to contribute to lectures ensures this learning-by-teaching is controlled, minimizing the potential propagation of misinformation.

I am interested in teaching courses focused on ecological principles (general ecology), quantitative methods for biologists (biostatistics and modeling), conservation biology, and global change, especially as these topics relate to population dynamics. I would emphasize the current tools and techniques used to investigate those dynamics (modelling approaches, available software). I am also interested in courses with a field component in which observable effects of the theories discussed in lecture can be analyzed using quantitative methods taught in class.

I have had many diverse opportunities to practice and refine my craft. Together with members of the Quantitative Ecology working group, I led a week-long workshop on statistical techniques and data analysis using R, to help wildlife officials better curate and evaluate their own data. As a classroom instructor, I have assisted with courses ranging from introductory (General Biology), to intermediate (Principles of Ecology), to advanced (Parasite Ecology), each with associated laboratory components. I took great pleasure in cultivating an engaging environment that allowed students to take an active role in their education. Additionally, I have worked with members of the La Crosse School District on an outreach program at the Juvenile Detention Center to expose students to pathways to career opportunities. By interacting with kids at the Center I was able to see how important it is to provide young students clear avenues to affect change in their environment. I collaborated on an NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) grant through UWL in 2017. I worked directly with one other faculty member to mentor students during a ten week summer research program to provide the students with valuable experience and knowledge as they begin their careers.