Echo Leaver

At the heart of my teaching philosophy lies a commitment to fostering a dynamic, inclusive learning environment that encourages students to deeply engage with psychological and neuroscientific concepts. I aim to inspire critical thinking and intellectual exploration through innovative teaching strategies, research mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Interactive, Growth-Oriented Learning
I see teaching as an interactive partnership with students, where each brings unique perspectives to the classroom. My goal is to create a space where students feel empowered to learn through exploration and even from their mistakes. Learning, to me, is an evolving process. To support this, I provide a blend of low-stakes comprehension exercises, high-stakes projects, and hands-on experiments. This balanced approach encourages students to focus on mastery and intellectual growth, building both confidence and curiosity.

Active Learning and Real-World Applications
Active learning is a core element of my teaching, where I frequently incorporate live demonstrations and investigative activities. Through tasks like "Change Blindness" and "Freezer Neglect," students can directly engage with complex neurological phenomena, translating theory into practice. These real-world applications not only enhance understanding but also aid in long-term retention, making abstract concepts more accessible.

Research Mentorship and Practical Experience
Research mentorship is central to my approach, particularly through EEG-based research projects. By guiding students in hands-on research, I help them develop critical technical and data analysis skills. Many of my students have co-authored presentations and publications, with their work recognized at conferences and aiding their acceptance into top neuroscience programs. For me, mentorship extends beyond the lab—it's about fostering independence, accountability, and a genuine engagement with research.

Interdisciplinary and Collaborative Teaching
My teaching philosophy also emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, as seen in my collaborative development of a 3D neuroscience model, which earned competitive acceptance into the national PURSUE Faculty Learning Community (FLC). This initiative allows me to connect with scholars from diverse fields, advancing interdisciplinary education within STEM. Known for my dedication to faculty development at primarily undergraduate institutions, I advocate for psychophysiology and neuroscience education, providing workshops that enhance teaching practices and cultivate inclusive learning spaces.

Creating Inclusive, Supportive Classrooms
Creating inclusive and brave learning environments is paramount. Integrating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles and trauma-informed practices ensures that students from diverse backgrounds feel supported. My DEI in Neuroscience course, for instance, encourages students to critically examine how diversity intersects with scientific research. Feedback from students highlights my courses' positive impact on their academic success and engagement.

In sum, my teaching philosophy centers on creating a supportive, engaging, and intellectually stimulating environment. Through innovative assignments, critical thinking exercises, research mentorship, and interdisciplinary initiatives, I aim to foster both academic achievement and personal growth, empowering students to reach their full potential.