People

My interest in the natural world led to graduate research in the ecology of marine plants. I have a broad interest in the ecology of many communities such as marine intertidal regions, bogs, and temperate forests.

As an instructor my primary role in the Biology Program is teaching of biology to undergraduate students. I teach first year biology laboratories, lead field experiences and lecture large classes. I hope that by laying a foundation of biological concepts students will relate these concepts to the world around them and apply the principles to societal issues.

My research focus is in the scholarship of teaching and learning. Projects include studying the impact of inquiry-based learning and the transition of students to higher education. Further projects in science education involved the revision of course curriculum based on learning outcomes and the adoption of teaching strategies that enhance student engagement in large lecture courses. I have been involved in the development of assessment tools designed to measure changes in student attitudes towards Biology as a Science and the effectiveness of curricular revisions. All of these efforts are a reflection of my commitment to improving the educational experience for undergraduate students.


Recent Courses Taught:
Biology 111 Cell and Organismal Biology
Biology 140 Laboratory Investigations in Life Science
Biology 121 Genetics, Evolution and Ecology