Teaching & Mentoring
My Teaching Philosophy: I wholeheartedly believe that every student has the ability to succeed; accordingly, I aim within my role as an instructor to provide each and every student the tools needed to reach their desired level of performance. Via lecture, I seek to not only deliver concepts in a manner comprehendible across levels, but to further emphasize the practical importance of such concepts in day-to-day life. Through the use of accessible examples and interactive activities, I seek to maximize student engagement and optimize learning via versatile methodologies.
I have had the opportunity to exercise my teaching philosophy as an instructor in both large lecture environments (CSU PSY 340; Organizational Psychology; MSU PSY 255- Introduction to Industrial/Organizational Psychology) as well as small group seminars (CSU PSY 792- Diversity in Organizations). Please see below my current and upcoming courses at Colorado State University.
Current Courses: Psychology of the Individual in Context (PSY 210- Spring 2024); Organizational Psychology (Online PSY 340- Spring 2024)
Upcoming Courses: Organizational Psychology (Online PSY 340- Summer 2024)
Evidence of Teaching Effectiveness:
Michigan State University: "Introduction to Industrial/Organizational Psychology" (PSY 255; 133 students)
Overall Rating: 4.30/5.00
Student Evaluation Comments:
"Best professor I have ever had. She really cares about her students doing well and wants to make sure we know the material."
"The instructor was very enthusiastic about teaching the material. Her examples were helpful, and she demonstrated expertise in the area that contributed a realistic and valuable platform from which to learn."
Colorado State University: "Diversity in Organizations" (PSY 792-D; 8 students)
Overall Rating: 4.95/5.00
Student Evaluation Comments:
"Danni did an awesome job as the class facilitator! She always had wise insights and further knowledge on the topic."
"I would love to see this course available to undergraduate students. This is such an important course and Danni is an engaging professor!"
Colorado State University: "Industrial & Organizational Psychology Seminar" (PSY 292A; 16 students)
Student Evaluation Comments:
"Dr. Gardner was a pleasure to have as an instructor. She was constantly professional while providing a thorough and engaging environment to be excited about the course. She was invested in the class's wellbeing and contributed greatly to an understanding of the field."
Mentoring
I have mentored both graduate and undergraduate students as they completed independent projects within the contexts of Senior Honors Theses, Dean's Assistantships, Provost Undergraduate Research Initiatives, Summer Research Opportunities Programs, and graduate-level milestones. As a mentor, I aim to guide students as they acquire and confidently refine research-related skills applicable to their personal post-graduation goals.