Teaching

My teaching style is one that encourages students to be the primary producers of knowledge rather than passive consumers of knowledge. As such, my courses put an emphasis on team-based work, critical thinking, and hands-on experience rather than focusing on memorization of facts. Students in my courses can expect to interact with other students for most of their grades, and be evaluated on the quality of their participation.

ENVS 302 - Environmental Science II: Biological Systems

Introduction to the biological component of environmental science, focusing on understanding the functioning of ecosystems, the patterns of biological diversity, the processes that influence those patterns over space and time, and how human activities can disrupt those processes. At least two Saturday field trips are required. Note: though currently ENVS 301 is listed a prerequisite, it is not actually required before students take 302. Talk to the ENVS advisor to be enrolled if you haven't yet taken 301. Sample syllabus.

BIOS 406/506 - Conservation Biology

Ecological bases for conservation of biological diversity, resource management, ecosystem restoration, and relationship of conservation practices to human welfare. Laboratory component is teams that devise and carry out research at Nachusa Grasslands. Field trips required. Sample syllabus.

BIOS 761 - Graduate Student Seminar

I teach seminar on a rotating basis with other Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Conservation faculty. When I teach seminar, I send around a survey to see what students are most interested in covering. Topics can range from grant writing to conservation or foundations of ecology.

ENVS 490 - Advanced Topics in Restoration Ecology

I often teach a 1-credit seminar called Advanced Topics in Restoration Ecology for both graduates who need 761 credits and undergraduates who are interested in the topic.