My Teaching Philosophy
My teaching philosophy is centered around the idea that learning is a lifelong journey, and my role is to guide students along this path. I believe in creating an environment that encourages exploration, critical thinking, and the application of knowledge to real-world situations. I strive to make my classes interactive, engaging, and relevant to my students’ future careers and personal growth.
Courses Taught
Petroleum Engineering 3330: Well Logging
Study of the rock properties by petrophysical techniques using electrical, nuclear and acoustic sources is an important procedure for Petroleum Engineers and Geologists to evaluate formation and reservoir properties. The intent of this course is to provide a foundation of knowledge which can be built upon later (as well log analysis requires plenty of real-life experience). The course will introduce the basic petrophysical properties of common reservoir rocks and then introduce the various logging tools which enable their measurement. Further, conventional log interpretation techniques for the most common reservoir scenarios are introduced.
- Offered in the Spring semester
Petroleum Engineering 4720: Geomechanics
As an analytical tool in geomechanics, the Mechanical Earth Model, or MEM, is composed of formation strength and stress data over the entire geological section. Well Engineering applications (such as mud weight selection for casing program design and bit selection, perforation design, and performance prediction), trap and seal analysis, fluid injection applications and hydraulic fracture stimulation depend on the accurate assessment of rock strength and stress at the in situ reservoir location. This course will introduce the fundamentals of stress, strain and strength and for the 1D example of a well design. The course is not designed to make the student a practicing geomechanicist; rather the desired outcome of this introductory course is to create an appreciation for this discipline that allows the Petroleum Engineer to more effectively utilize all the engineering and earth science technologies now available to optimize the oil & gas asset field development plan.
- Offered in the Fall semester
Geology 6001: Professional Geoscience Skills
Development and communication of complex topics in the geosciences, petroleum and geological engineering is required for successful post-MS career advancement. Best practices for developing these skills in these disciplines will be critiqued weekly, culminating with poster and oral presentations. Assessment by peer-review and self-evaluation. Topics selected from geosciences careers. Prerequisites: Graduate Standing.
- Offered in the Spring semester
Teaching Methods and Approaches
I employ a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles, including [e.g., flipped classrooms, problem-based learning, group projects]. I believe in a hands-on approach and incorporate real-world examples and case studies wherever possible.
Student Engagement
I encourage student engagement through active participation in discussions, group projects, and presentations. I am always open to questions and discussions outside of class time.
Office Hours
I hold office hours during the semester. Please check your class syllabus for updated times.
Contact
Feel free to reach out to me at [eckertan@mst.edu] or during my office hours for any questions or clarifications.