Teaching Philosophy

I am passionate about the field of geology/environmental science and enjoy introducing students to the world around them. I love watching the excitement in student's faces when they begin to understand a concept that is new to them. 
My main objective as a professor is to help students learn, I see myself as a guide to the learning process rather than the fountain of all knowledge to impart. When students tell me that they see the world around them with new eyes, then I know I have been successful.
I use a variety of techniques to help students learn: illustrated lectures, group learning/peer teaching, hands-on activities, personal response system ("clickers"), reflective writing assignments, etc. Most importantly, I take students into the field and get them up-close and personal with the rocks and geologic features. Being able to see things in a real-world context helps students learn. 
I challenge students to do their best and I provide them with the tools they will need to succeed.

Scholarly Interest

Geochemistry of igneous rocks
Granite petrogenesis
Hydrothermal albitization of granite
Use of writing to enhance learning in undergraduate courses
Preparation of pre-service teachers in earth sciences

GEOS 51 Dynamic Planet
GEOS 57 Earth Systems Science
GEOS 100 Mineralogy
GEOS 106 Earth Materials & The Environment
GEOS 110 Igneous & Metamorphic Petrology
GEOS 142 Geochemistry
GEOS 145 Engineering Geology
GEOS 185 Capstone in Environmental Science
PACS 1
PACS 2