About Me
EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY
Multi-media resources with fun and frequent review of material is an effective combined strategy for deep learning and conceptual knowledge that a student retains. In my college classroom and for tutoring, I utilize video, animations, books, stories, and sometimes silliness to make learning seem like less of a chore and more of an adventure. Love to learn!
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
In 1991, I earned my Bachelor’s degree (major biology/minor psychology)from Grand Valley State University in Allendale, MI, graduating with with a GPA of 3.85. In 1993, I received my Master’s degree (major Animal Behavior/minor Psychology), from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA, graduating with a GPA of 4.0.
I also received a summer biology research internship in 1993 from the Center’s for Disease Control in Bethesda, Maryland.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
For the past eight years, I have been a part-time biology professor in Michigan, at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, and was awarded the KVCC Faculty Instructional Award in 2013.
In cooperation with a high school educator in Colorado, I have created a science education website called ScienceProfOnline.com. This resource provides free science materials to college, high school and grade school students and teachers.
Before moving to Kalamazoo, I taught biology at Grand Valley State University and Grand Rapids Community College, also in Michigan.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
I love to garden, am learning to play the mandolin and stay involved with professional teaching organizations, such as the Michigan Science Teachers Association (MSTA) and the Michigan Community College Biologists (MCCB) Association.