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

Example Course Projects

Data-based Project

Students answer quantitative questions using real astronomical data of known exoplanets, stars, and galaxies. 

Credit: Jessica Barrientos Hernandez

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 Laboratory

Adjunct Astronomy Faculty at Chaffey College

Astronomy 26 | Stars & Galaxies*Astronomy 27 | Life in the Universe

Graduate 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.