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"Mentoring isn’t an extracurricular activity. It is vital for cultivating an enriching, inclusive community."
– Diana Olin

Teaching Philosophy

I believe that education should be more than just the transmission of information. It should be an engaging, dynamic process that equips students with the skills to think critically and creatively, and to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom. My teaching philosophy is rooted in the idea that science is not a static body of facts, but a living, evolving discipline that requires curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity.
 

Inclusive and Compassionate Learning: I strive to create an environment where all students feel seen, heard, and respected. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are foundational to my approach. I challenge the traditional view that there is one "right" way to learn or to approach science. Instead, I encourage a variety of perspectives and learning styles, understanding that every student has unique strengths to contribute. In the classroom, mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth, and students are encouraged to ask questions and take intellectual risks.
 

Skill Building Over Memorization: While foundational knowledge is important, I emphasize the development of transferable skills that students can apply in any context. Through my teaching experiences, I have helped students practice critical thinking skills by analyzing scientific literature, engaging in class discussions, and expressing their ideas in creative ways. I encourage higher-level thinking, using frameworks like Bloom’s Taxonomy to guide students from basic understanding to deeper application and analysis.
 

Alternatives to Traditional Assessments: Rather than focusing solely on exams, I believe in diverse forms of assessment that help students grow in different areas. During my teaching experiences, I have seen firsthand how assignments such as group projects, presentations, and creative tasks allow students to engage with course material in more meaningful ways. I value providing feedback that encourages reflection and continuous improvement.
 

Science and Art Integration: I view science as both a discipline of inquiry and a means of expression. I encourage students to approach scientific concepts through both analytical and artistic lenses. Whether it's through drawing scientific diagrams, creating visual representations of data, or exploring art that communicates ecological issues, I believe that integrating art into science education nurtures creativity and deeper understanding. This combination of science and art can enhance students’ ability to think outside the box and to connect with the material on a more personal level.
 

Ultimately, my goal is to foster an environment where students are inspired to think critically, embrace creativity, and approach learning with curiosity, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Teaching Experience

I have served as a Teaching Assistant and Guest Lecturer for a variety of courses in the natural sciences, including Ornithology, Waterfowl Ecology, and Wildlife Techniques. My teaching has ranged from small seminars to larger lecture courses, with class sizes ranging from 15 to 90 students.
 

  • Teaching Assistant

    • Oklahoma State University | Ornithology (NREM 4464) | 80 hours | Jan 2023

    • Mississippi State University | Ornithology (WFA 4443) | 40 hours | Apr 2022

    • Mississippi State University | Waterfowl Ecology and Management (WFA 4394) | 80 hours | Aug 2021

    • Mississippi State University | Ornithology (WFA 4443) | 30 hours | Apr 2021
       

  • Guest Lecturer

    • Oklahoma State University | Graduate Seminar (NREM 5020) | 1 hour | Feb 2024

    • Clemson University | Bird Monitoring Creative Inquiry (FNR 4700) | 2 hours | Feb 2024

    • Oklahoma State University | Introduction to Natural History (NREM 1014) | 2 hours | Feb 2024

    • Oklahoma State University | Ornithology (NREM 4464) | 6 hours | Sept 2022

    • Mississippi State University | Wildlife Techniques (WFA 4243) | 2 hours | Apr 2022

    • Mississippi State University | Wildlife Techniques (WFA 4243) | 2 hours | Apr 2021Training
       

  • Training

    • Graduate Teaching Assistant Conference | 8 hours | Aug 2025

    • Engaging Students in the Classroom: Strategies for Encouraging Participation | 2 hours | Feb 2025

    • Ferguson College of Agriculture Spring Teaching Workshop | 5 hours | Jan 2025

    • Designing College Courses – Backward Design | 1 hour | Dec 2024
       

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