Teaching Philosophy                                                                                

Science touches almost every facet of our lives in today's world.  Consequently, I believe that each student (whether science major or non-major) must possess a thorough knowledge of the method of scientific inquiry to be an informed citizen and critically evaluate any empirical findings presented before him or her.  It is essential for a student to realize that science is much more than merely a body of random facts and figures.  Of course, a working level of scientific literacy is necessary, but far more important than the memorizing of scientific facts is the mastering of scientific methodology.  If a student can truly learn that "facts" gained through the scientific method are repeatedly subject to verification, then he or she will no longer blindly accept knowledge that is presented.  Therefore, a student who embraces the scientific method as a tool for investigating empirical knowledge of our world will be capable of evaluating any body of work with a critical eye and drawing his or her own interpretations.  This ability to think discerningly in a scientific manner is becoming increasingly important in today's world where we are bombarded with contradictory information on a daily basis.  As a professor of science, it is my duty to provide the means and freedom to allow each student to intimately explore the scientific method first-hand, while I serve as a guide to ensure that the student stays on the right path.  Implementation of my teaching philosophy in the classroom is achieved, in part, through a high level of student engagement and ownership of work.