Current research
As a teacher of early childhood education, my current research focuses on common misconceptions about science that teachers carry with them into the classroom. From my background in secondary science education, I've found that despite being taught basic concepts as students, many professionals are not confident in their knowledge of science and often fall back on erroneous, but long-held beliefs about the physical world, especially if a particular concept is somewhat abstract. For example, when I ask people why seasons exist, many answer based on what they believe to be true, rather than on fact. Through a summer research grant, I plan to survey hundreds of practicing elementary teachers to uncover their beliefs about science. I'm hoping that the results will help me learn what my students need to feel comfortable teaching science and at the same time, provide a blueprint for other professors to assess their students' knowledge and set them on the right path.

Appreciation
While I haven't yet accumulated much classroom experience at Miami, I find it gratifying when students express their appreciation for what I do and what they've learned from me. Often it takes just that one special email to remind me why I am here.

Teaching model
A teacher I had in elementary school greatly influenced my own desire to become a teacher. Not only was she knowledgeable and supportive, she had a magnetic personality that made her job very attractive to me! Our continued correspondence through the years testifies to the bond that is often formed between teacher and student. I also decided that I wanted to share my knowledge of math and science through teaching rather than keep it to myself!

Great expectations
I remember how surprised I was the first time I realized just how ambitious and motivated Miami students are! When I gave an assignment, they immediately dove into the work! I soon realized that I could trust them to do the reading, even if they were not going to be held accountable by writing a paper or giving a presentation. I knew they would come prepared to participate in classroom discussion. The students here know how to think critically, and as busy as most of them are, they always seem to be on top of their responsibilities. I also appreciate the supportive environment professors enjoy here. It is another big reason why I chose to teach at Miami.

What's cooking?
If I wasn't a teacher, I would love to be a cook in my own restaurant! I like the challenge of taking whatever I can find on hand at home and making something delicious from it.

Taking inventory
As an undergraduate, I appreciated the help my adviser gave me as I struggled to identify my own area of research, and I want to provide the same kind of direction for my students. I want to help them discover where their interests lie so they can take advantage of the many undergraduate research opportunities available at Miami and the freedom to really focus on subject matter they feel passionate about.