Teaching
Purposeful Pedagogy
As inhabitants of this planet, I believe it is the responsibility of us all, to the best of every individuals ability, to have knowledge of the fundamental concepts of Earth science, so that we each can make informed and responsible decisions for ourselves, our communities, and our world.
An Earth Systems Approach
In our increasingly connected world, we are in some ways becoming less connected to the physical environment around us. As a geoscience educator I strongly believe that we owe it to each other and our world to understand Earth systems as best we can and use that scientific literacy to pursue a brighter future for our whole planet. The Earth Sciences covers an exciting and diverse range of topics investigating a multitude of processes and issues that are more important today in the face of dramatic climate and environmental change.
Pondering stratigraphy and fault zones for a field camp mapping exercise in Southern Wyoming.
Investigating the San Juan Volcanic area in southwestern Colorado.
Learning Communities
My teaching focuses on establishing a supportive learning community, implementing varied active learning methodologies, and the development of critical thinking and communication skills. The richest learning occurs when students feels safe, valued, and engaged. The world we live in is a fascinating place, and no matter a student’s academic or professional path, a basic understanding of the natural world is useful beyond the classroom. As a teacher, I want to provide my students with skills and tools that will benefit them throughout their lives as they tackle new challenges, both academic and professional.
Courses I have developed and taught:
Introduction to Geology (CU, 2018)
Environmental Geology (PSU, 2023)
Natural Hazards (PSU, 2023)
Energy and Society (PSU, 2023)
Environmental Science (PSU, 2023)
Environmental Geography (PSU, 2022)
Climate Change (PSU, 2022)
Hydrology (PSU, 2022 )
Advanced Field Techniques: Environmental Monitoring (PSU, 2023)
Science Toolkit: Skills for Success (PSU, 2023)
*CU: Univesity of Colorado Boulder; PSU: Plymouth State University; year indicates last time offered
Courses Under Development:
Data Analysis for Earth Scientists
Environmental Racism and GeoEthics
The Cryosphere
Core learning objectives I fold into my teaching:
Foster Curiosity and Creativity
Develop Skills and Problem Solving Techniques
Build Confidence and Community
Inspire Lifelong Learning
Below are some examples from the field and classroom of teaching and learning experiences I have facilitated:
Exploring Acid Mine Drainage Remediation at the Ore Hill Mine, Warren, NH (Env. Geology Fall 2021)
Tour of Franklin Falls Dam and other Flood Control Systems with the Army Core of Engineers for the Fall 2021 Natural Hazards Class
Investigating the Dilly Fire with USFS Ranger John Neely, Kinsman Notch, New Hampshire
Quantifying fluvial erosion from pothole features along the Pemigewasset River, Plymouth, NH
Environmental Geology field trip to Livermore Falls along the Pemigewasset River to identify rock types, measure strike and dip, and synthesize geologic histories, Fall 2021
Role-playing community preparation and response to a volcanic hazard; Natural Hazards course, Fall 2021
Classroom Technology
Maps and Mapping
3D virtual sandbox coming soon!
Darcy Columns
Exploring hydraulic conductivity with custom built Darcy columns.
Hydraulic Flume
Custom flume for experiential learning and experimentation - Coming soon to a classroom near you!