Teaching
Teaching Philosophy
More than just memorizing facts and equations, science is about the process of learning. A critical step to learning is the act of doing, or directly engaging with the material. I lead students through the scientific process in my courses using observational-based projects, open-ended discussion questions, and examples where the "facts" have changed. My teaching goals are for students to be able to draw conclusions based on their observations, develop the skills they need to succeed in their future careers, and contemplate their place in our vast Universe.
Examples of Open-Ended Discussions
How do you conceptualize size and distance?
What scientific research would you fund and why?
How might the collision with Andromeda affect our civilization?
Example Course Projects
Data-based Project
Students answer quantitative questions using real astronomical data of known exoplanets, stars, and galaxies.
Sunrise/Sunset Observations
Students observe seasons in action by tracking the Sun's location on the horizon during sunrise/sunset throughout the semester.
Sunspot Solar Rotation
Students use data from the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory to measure the Sun's rotation rate from its sunspots.
Courses
Below is the list of courses that I have taught thus far.
Visiting Faculty at CSU San Marcos
Physics 342 | Introduction to AstrophysicsAstronomy 342 | Elements of AstronomyPhysics 201L | Physics of Mechanics & Sound LaboratoryAdjunct Astronomy Faculty at Chaffey College
Astronomy 26 | Stars & Galaxies*Astronomy 27 | Life in the UniverseGraduate Student Teaching Assistant at UC Riverside
Physics 20 | Exploring the UniversePhysics 6 | The Violent UniversePhysics 37 | The OriginsPhysics 2LC | General Physics LaboratoryPhysics 40LA | General Physics Laboratory* Assisted in course develop only.