My path to geography was indirect and as such, I enjoy teaching students who have their own unique and meandering educational journeys.
As a geography professor, I aim to shatter mistaken stereotypes students might have about geography, connect students’ personal experiences to class content, and inspire excitement and compassion about the world we call home.
I make every effort to design student-centered courses that encourage students to transition from passive learners to active learners. Active learning environments advocate the application of knowledge, while students utilize essential life skills such as communication, strategic thinking, and problem-solving. I strive to balance class activities (both in and out of the classroom in the form of field method demonstrations, seminars, presentations, field trips, community engagement, service learning, etc.) with meaningful and relevant lectures that establish a foundation upon which student learning is fostered. Ultimately, the skills developed in student-centered classes, are often the same skills that are required for establishing and maintaining successful careers after the students’ education, regardless of their subsequent path.
Highlights from Courses Taught:
Cartography – Maps and Mapping
This course aims to develop and enhance students’ fundamental spatial thinking and visual communication skills. It incorporates a variety of experiential learning opportunities, including working with the community and local government agencies on real-world, beyond the classroom mapping projects.
Shannon McCarragher, Ph.D. 