Teaching and Mentorship

Teaching Statement: In my teaching of ecology, I strive to prepare a new generation of land managers, scientists, conservationists, public policymakers, and stewards. I believe in creating a dynamic learning environment that responds to student needs and interests while providing them with strong foundations for their studies. A data-driven approach is central to my teaching philosophy, where courses evolve based on student feedback, evaluations, and evidence-based pedagogy. I emphasize hands-on experiences, whether in the field, lab, or through computer-based exercises, to engage students and develop their analytical skills. Throughout my teaching career, I have mentored undergraduate students in diverse areas, including career guidance, coding, statistics, and ecological theory. I have gained valuable experience at Montana State University, such as independently revamping lab materials and curriculum to reflect the current state of technology and statistics in Landscape Ecology. In the Rocky Mountain Vegetation course, I optimized student learning and skill acquisition through iterative curriculum design and engaging lab and field activities. Additionally, in the LiDAR Remote Sensing course, I introduced upper-level undergraduates to the fundamentals of LiDAR and guided them in processing and analyzing data using Python and R. By incorporating these experiences into my teaching approach, I aim to create an inclusive and interactive learning environment that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and a deeper understanding of ecology. Through mentorship and hands-on experiences, I strive to empower students to become proficient not only as ecologists but in hard skills like coding and GIS, equipping them with the necessary skills to excel in their future endeavors as ecological professionals.