“The whole of science is nothing more than a refinement of everyday thinking.”
— Albert Einstein
My teaching philosophy is based on the premise that anyone can both learn physics and find something in physics of value to their everyday life. As a result, my courses:
- promote a growth mindset – the belief that one’s capabilities can expand and change over time;
- give students the agency, normally reserved for instructors, to develop ideas and make connections; and
- reward thinking and analysis, not just correctness.
For a more detailed explanation of my teaching philosophy, please see my teaching statement below.
Courses I've taught
Newtonian Mechanics (Algebra)
Newtonian mechanics, including linear and rotational kinematics forces, with an algebraic basis. Kinematics and forces are covered twice: one in one dimension and again in two dimensions.
Newtonian Mechanics (Calculus)
Newtonian mechanics with a calculus basis. Concepts are introduced and then translated into mathematics, in the form of vectors, derivatives, and differential equations.
Introductory Electromagnetism (Algebra)
Unlike traditional electromagnetism courses, which cover electric and then magnetic phenomena in succession over the course of the term, I teach this course in three “cycles:” each cycle covers electricity and magnetism, but successive cycles increase in scope, complexity, and utilized mathematics.
Introductory Electromagnetism (Calculus)
I keep the cyclical structure of the algebra-based course, but students are exposed more readily to questions of the modelling of circuits and their time-varying behaviors.
Other teaching contexts
Kinesiology guest lecturer (Tufts University)
Teaching basics of torque and levers
High school virtual visitor (Medford High School)
Discussed particle physics, becoming a physicist, and what a day in the life of a physics researcher looks like
Professional Tutor (Apt Tutoring, Test Prep & College Counseling, LLC
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I tutored high school students in physics and algebra on Zoom