Teaching Philosophy

1. Rigor with support.
High standards, clearly communicated, paired with real confidence that every student can meet them. Failure early, in low-stakes settings, is part of learning.

2. Learn by doing.
Students move from concept to application as quickly as possible. Mastery comes from working the problem, not absorbing the answer.

3. To study the Earth, observe the Earth.
Fieldwork is where understanding clicks. From campus creeks to river outcrops to real projects for local agencies, students collect data that matters.

4. Access for every student.
Low-cost trips, flexible pacing, shared roles, and equivalent alternatives so every student can make the same observations and have the same chance to succeed.

5. Communicate like a scientist.
Students write formal reports and defend their interpretations aloud, with frequent low-stakes practice and early feedback.

6. Mentor toward independence.
My goal is to teach until I am no longer needed, helping students see the next steps on a path of their own choosing.