Overview
I would describe my teaching philosophy as humanistic. I teach research and statistics. Most students, understandably, are anxious about those courses. I believe that students learn more when they feel comfortable approaching me about their questions and struggles. Thus, I meet with them individually and frequently so that I can develop safe spaces and positive alliances with my students. My goal is to develop Adler students’ abilities to use research and statistical skills as methods to learn about their chosen field of interest so that they can make meaningful contributions that enhance the knowledge base of psychology.
I have two research interests. My research background consisted of implementing elementary school—and community—based evaluation impact studies with the goal of improving student outcomes. My first research interest is to develop instruments that (a) measure children’s social and emotional development, (b) school climate, and (c) the University prevention program’s implementation dosage and fidelity. My second research interest stems from my involvement in community groups such as Parents, Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) that advocate for social justice for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) communities. I am researching how family members accept, support, and advocate on behalf of their LGBT loved ones. I also investigate the development of heterosexual persons and their ability to support, educate, and advocate for LGBT communities.
Please email or call me 312.662.4354 if you have questions or would like more information about me.