Which classes do you teach online?
PSY 340: Social Psychology; PSY 304: Consumer Psychology; PSY 580: Cognition in the Workplace; and PSY 494: Psychology of Religion (a special topics course)
What do you want students in your courses to learn? What is the learning outcome or objective?
I hope students would gain considerable content knowledge, but I think it is also very important to learn about the research process in psychology (this would be related to critical thinking).
Why did you start teaching?
Many careers in psychology require an advanced degree, and people in my area of training (social psychology) often work in colleges and universities. So, in a sense, it just seemed like a natural progression. But I also really like the college environment, learning new things, and having flexibility in my schedule.
What advice would you give to those considering this online program?
Online programs are flexible, which can be very convenient with regard to our busy lives. However, that flexibility also means that it's easier to put off or ignore the work. I recommend planning and following a schedule that spreads out the work, rather than procrastinating and trying to cram everything in at the last minute.
What qualities make someone particularly successful in the field in which you teach?
That's difficult to answer because there are so many paths one can take in psychology. For example, if one wanted to become a therapist, I would think perspective-taking or empathy would be valuable. For those who go into the business world, I imagine conscientiousness and creativity would be important. In academia, perhaps curiosity? It would be a plus if one enjoys reading and writing. Of course, psychologists in all of these areas should be knowledgeable and able to make decisions based on that knowledge.
What is the one book you think everyone should read?
The Bible.
Tell us something interesting about yourself that your students may not know about you.
I like fantasy and science fiction and hope to write a novel someday.
