Teaching

With over a decade of experience teaching biology, ecology, and environmental science courses, my approach is rooted in inclusive teaching and supportive mentoring. I employ various effective techniques, including active learning activities, small group and class discussions, hybrid methods for online learning, and outdoor education, to engage and inspire my students.

In line with my commitment to fostering inclusivity, I actively recruit undergraduate student researchers and prioritize welcoming those from underserved populations. By providing opportunities for hands-on research experiences, I aim to empower students and broaden their perspectives in the field.

Central to my mentoring philosophy is the belief that the learning process is reciprocal. I recognize that I can learn as much from those I mentor as they learn from me. By cultivating a supportive and inclusive environment, I aim to create an atmosphere where collaborative learning becomes enjoyable and rewarding for everyone involved.

Overall, I am dedicated to promoting inclusivity, creating engaging learning experiences, and supporting the growth and development of my students.

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSIVITY

CURRENT COURSES

Field Methods in Plant Ecology explores the concepts and techniques of plant ecology. A combination of lab, greenhouse, and field-based exercises. Statistical analysis and scientific writing.

Systematic Botany of Flowering Plants is an examination of the taxonomy and evolution of flowering plants. Topics include phylogenetics and cladistics, plant species concepts, and systematic research.

Plants and Society introduces plant biology as it affects human society. Topics include the origins of agriculture, the morphology and chemistry of food plants, the material uses of plant products, the biology of medicinal plants, and plant diversity and bioprospecting.

Evolution focuses on physiological, behavioral, and population ecology, and on linking ecological processes to evolution.

Physiology and Development covers the topics of morphology, physiology, development, genetics, and endocrinology selected to exemplify current issues and perspectives in organismic biology.

PAST COURSES

Introduction to Environmental Restoration is a field course that introduces students to the interdisciplinary art and science of restoring destroyed or degraded habitats. The course has an emphasis on the interplay of ecological principles, planning, implementation, and monitoring of restoration plans. Field trips expose students to active restoration projects and baseline monitoring techniques.

Advanced Environmental Restoration uses skills acquired in Introduction to Environmental Restoration and applies them to a real-world restoration project. Students apply appropriate field techniques, learn data analysis methods, and develop report-writing and professional presentation skills. Research is in collaboration with local organizations and agencies, including Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory.

Life on a Changing Planet is a core class that introduces students to the basic skills and knowledge necessary to examine biological and environmental issues critically. The course materials emphasize the understanding and use of the scientific method and the analysis of conflicting data and viewpoints. Students use life science information to analyze environmental issues and debates by considering scientific consensus and the weight of scientific evidence.

Introduction to Applied Ecology focuses on environmental issues through the lens of biological sciences. Basic scientific concepts at different scales of biological organization from genes to ecosystems.