Philosophy

For most of us, the best way to learn science is to do science. I incorporate real data and hands-on lab and field experiences into my courses at every level, and teach on river banks and outcrops whenever I can. I hope that every one of my students, whether or not they go on to pursue a science field, finish my courses with working knowledge of the scientific process and a deeper understanding of the physical world around them.

Teaching experience

UC Merced: 2021-present

In the 2021-2022 academic year, I will teach:

• Fundamentals of Geology (ESS020)
• Geomorphology and Surface Processes (ESS120)

Victoria University of Wellington: 2017-2020

• Applied Geomorphology (GEOG 319), co-taught with Dr. Bethanna Jackson
• Geomorphology and its Application (PHYG 418)
• Field Geomorphology (PHYG 423), co-taught with Dr. Kevin Norton and Dr. Shaun Eaves

Colorado College: 2016 and 2011 

• Geology of the Pike’s Peak Region (GY 135)

University of Wyoming: 2014

• Topics in Geology: Writing a Scientific Manuscript (GEOL 5200),

Additional teaching experience

From 2005 to 2008, I was an instructor at the Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center. I developed and taught lessons in a broad range of science topics, from Forest Ecology and Geology to local mushrooms, amphibians, and stream invertebrates. I worked with school groups from 2nd grade through high school, weekend workshops for adults and families, and summer backpacking trips for teens.

Find out more about Opal Creek here. They’re a fantastic organization! *Update: The Opal Creek wilderness burned in the wildfires of 2020, and the historic town of Jawbone Flats (the heart of OCAFC) was largely destroyed. They’re finding a way forward, with the support of a lot of wonderful people. If you’d like to be one of those people, click on the link above to find their donations page.