My Teaching Philosophy
My desire to teach, inspire, and motivate students has led me to pursue research in Biology education and to apply research-based strategies in the classroom. I have participated in multiple professional development opportunities to strengthen my teaching, most recently receiving a Certificate in Effective Instruction by participating in the ACUE Course in Effective Teaching Practices.
I have not only redesigned courses to increase student engagement, but also developed studies to determine if my classroom interventions are effective. I have presented my biology education research in talks and posters at the American Society for Cell Biology Annual Meeting, the Society for the Advancement of Biology Education Research Annual Meeting, the Association of Colleges and Universities for Biology Education annual meeting, the American Society for Microbiology Conference for Undergraduate Educators, and S&T’s own Teaching and Learning Technology Conference.
Courses Taught
[Cell Biology BIO SCI 2213]
The structure and function of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Emphasis on macromolecules, organelles, metabolic pathways, bioenergetics, cell signaling, the cell cycle, and gene expression.
- Semester taught: [Fall and Spring]
[Cell Biology Lab BIO SCI 2219]
Laboratory course to accompany Cell Biology (Bio Sci 2213). Laboratory work includes microscopy, biochemical assays, enzymology, and genetic analysis (PCR, mapping, electrophoresis, transfection, sequencing)
- Semester taught: [Fall and Spring]
[Molecular Genetics Lab BIO SCI 4329]
This course provides experience in the use of a variety of DNA manipulation techniques that are common to molecular studies. These include DNA extraction, restriction mapping, Southern blotting, recombinant plasmid construction, DNA sequencing and analysis, and polymerase chain reaction.
- Semester taught: [Fall]
[Cancer Cell Biology BIO SCI 4353]
Advanced biology course examining cellular processes that go awry during tumorigenesis. We will discuss cell cycle controls, signal transduction pathways, DNA repair, telomerase, apoptosis, cell migration and adhesion that are altered in cancer cells.
- Semester taught: [even numbered Spring semesters]
[Developmental Biology BIO SCI 5353]
Study of the patterns of development of the vertebrate embryo, the molecular mechanisms of tissue induction, and interactions among developing tissues.
- Semester taught: [odd number Spring semesters]
Teaching Methods and Approaches
I employ a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles, including flipped classrooms, problem-based learning, group projects, analysis of primary literature, and student presentations. I believe in a hands-on approach and incorporate real-world examples and case studies wherever possible.