TEACHING

As an educator in the biological sciences, I challenge and support my students to master foundational concepts, to develop a conceptual framework of biology enabling them to integrate new knowledge, and to appreciate the diverse ways in which scientists study the natural world. My teaching philosophy draws on problem-solving and experiential learning activities to actively engage students in scientific inquiry and to promote critical thinking. ​I am committed to developing a community of scholars in the sciences that better reflects the diversity of our society. This begins in the classroom and is extended through opportunities in student-led research collaborations and participation in science literacy outreach.

I have developed and taught a diversity of biological science courses and guest lectures in animal behavior, physiology, ecology, evolution, and wildlife conservation in classroom, laboratory, and field settings. ​

Ecology and conservation of migratory birds

Learning Outcomes: Genetic and genomic application to understanding animal behavior.

​Course content under development

hormones and behavior

Learning Outcomes: The major focus of the course is comparative and evolutionary approaches to the study of the relationship between reproductive hormones and reproductive behavior. Related topics include hormonal contributions to aggression, stress, learning and memory, and biological rhythms. 

  1. Mastery of the basic principles and concepts of the field. 
  2. Understanding of the scientific process as it is used to advance knowledge in the field, especially experimental methods. 
  3. Ability to read closely and think critically about recent primary (empirical, data-based) journal articles in the field. 
  4. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively about the science of the field, both orally and in writing. ​

animal behavior

Learning Outcomes: The general goals of this course are to introduce students to each of the following:

  1. The general proximal mechanisms underlying animal behavior, including basic neuroethology and endocrinology.
  2. The evolutionary forces that have shaped animal behavior (behavioral ecology and sociobiology).
  3. The methods and techniques used to study animal behavior.
  4. The reasons for studying animal behavior, including its application to understanding human behavior.​

ornithology

Learning Outcomes: Students gain an appreciation for the diversity of birds and are introduced to aspects of the biology of birds. The course combines field trips with lectures and hands-on taxonomic identification of study skins.
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  1. Core topics: evolution of birds, flight and migration, anatomy and physiology, bird behavior, vocal behavior, breeding biology, ecology of birds, and bird conservation
  2. The basics of avian skeletal anatomy, feather types and structure, feather coloration and function, molt, nests and eggs, and the diversity of birds
  3. Characteristics of birds and field identification of North American species
  4. The scientific names for the higher taxonomic categories: Order, Families, and Subfamilies and Suborders for selected groups
  5. The songs of North American species along with their full scientific names

conservation and natural resources management

Learning Outcomes: Students gain a greater understanding of natural resource and cultural sustainability issues specific to New Zealand, and globally, through exposure to and participation in:

  1. Traditional, institutional, and national ecosystem conservation programs, practices, and regulatory processes 
  2. Exploration of protected areas, including National Parks, ecological reserves, and historic sites
  3. Identification and assessment of threatened environments (human, terrestrial, and marine)

responsible eco-travel and eco-tourism

Learning Outcomes: Students gain a greater understanding of responsible eco-travel and eco-tourism practices, including: cultural respect, selecting low impact activities, researching the most environmentally sustainable operators, responsible purchasing and reducing consumption, water and energy conservation, benefits to local communities, protection of natural environments, creating awareness, and positive interactions with people and wildlife...and we share in a lot of adventures!

introductory biology

Learning Outcomes: ​The goal of this course is for students to gain a strong foundation in fundamental biological concepts and the ways that scientists study them. All of biology operates under the constraints of the mechanisms of evolution. Therefore, central to developing this foundation, students gain an understanding of the theories, evidence, and mechanisms of evolution. 

  1. Core topics: molecular basis of life, biology of the cell, genetic and molecular biology, evolution, diversity of life on Earth, plant form and function, animal form and function, ecology and behavior
  2. ​Strengthen problem-solving skills and key concept development
  3. Understand the scientific process and engage in scientific inquiry
  4. Read and think critically about the primary literature
  5. Analyze data, interpret experimental results, and communicate scientific understanding in written and oral forms
  6. Develop effective study skills 

guest lectures

Behavioral Ecology, Guest Lecturer “Skype with the author”, Lafayette College, Department of Biology
 
Biogeography, Guest Lecturer “Biogeography of endemic rainforest birds of the Malay Archipelago”, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Geography and Environmental Systems Department
 
Hormones and Behavior, Guest Lecturer “Stress and coping with environmental challenges”, Cornell University, Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Department of Psychology
 
Behavioral Ecology, Guest Lecturer “Field techniques in avian ecology”, Michigan State University, Department of Zoology