Teaching and mentoring
Teaching and mentoring
I teach astronomy through physical questions and the observations that help answer them. Students learn to interpret data, test ideas, and explain their reasoning.
ASTR 1250
Alien Worlds
An introduction to planets beyond the Solar System. Students learn how observations reveal the sizes, orbits, atmospheres, and histories of other worlds.
ASTR 5110
Astronomical Techniques
How astronomical instruments work and how we analyze their data. Students connect observing methods, measurement uncertainties, and physical interpretation.
ASTR 1610
Introduction to Astronomical Research
Guest lectures introduce astronomical research questions and the observing and analysis methods used to address them.
Mentoring
Research with a team
Students develop a research question, learn the relevant analysis methods, and discuss their results regularly. I encourage them to test their assumptions and take increasing responsibility for the project.
Teaching philosophy
Connecting observations to physics
I emphasize physical understanding, quantitative reasoning, and clear communication. Students should be able to explain why a measurement supports an interpretation and how they would test it further.
I treat uncertainty as part of scientific reasoning. Comparing alternative explanations helps students identify what they can conclude and what they still need to measure.