Background:  I grew up in Madison, Wisconsin (Go Packers!) and received bachelor’s degrees in both Mathematics & Atmospheric & Oceanic Science from University of Wisconsin-Madison.  I decided to continue my work in applied math through a Master’s Degree in Atmospheric Science at University of Washington-Seattle.  At UW-Seattle, I did a numerical study of the stability of a periodic flow.  The work was very interesting but I decided to step away from the computer models and into the classroom after completing my Master’s Degree.

 

Teaching Philosophy:  I believe that everyone is capable of good quantitative (and symbolic) reasoning.  I want my students to leave my classes with both the confidence and the ability to do mathematics.  I have found that I most effectively teach in a classroom that allows for discussion, has students working in groups, and uses technology when appropriate.

 

 

As a student, what can you expect from me?

·         An organized course with clear expectations.

·         Most class days will involve some lecture, but you can expect group assignments on a regular basis.

·         Weekly homework and/or quizzes.

·         Time to answer questions (either in class, via email, or during office hours).

·         Enthusiasm and energy.  I love mathematics!

·         Respect

 

What do I expect from my students?

·         A positive attitude towards the course.

·         A time commitment to the course—this refers to both being in class and spending time on the material outside of class.

·         Although some amount of struggle can be a good thing, I expect students to use campus resources (such as the Math Lab, my office hours, or online resources).

·         Respect towards classmates and myself.

 

 

Interests:  Below are just a few of things that I am currently interested in.

·         Numerical Weather Prediction - You can read about the fascinating history of NWP here!

·         Improving Developmental Math Education – I have been incorporating ALEKS into my Math 098 classes with the goal of putting mastery based learning into a traditional classroom setting.  You can read more about ALEKS on their site, and how I have been using it in the classroom on my Math 098 page.

·         Rock Climbing.  I love traveling and I have spent time climbing in Squamish, the Cascades, Index, Leavenworth, Red Rocks, Rocky Mountain National Park, Yosemite, and Indian Creek.  All of the photographs on this site have come from my climbing adventures and you can find a few more pictures here.