Quick Links:
Graduate Research Methods Syllabus.
Introduction to American Government Syllabus, Fall 19
Co-authored, open-access methods textbook github repo.
Undergraduate Quantitative Research Methods Syllabus.
Supplemental Material for Integrating Teaching and Research Book Chapter.
Intro to PA, Undergrad Spring 2020 Syllabus.
American Public Policy, PSCI 4730, Fall 2020 Syllabus (online).
Description of Experience:
In general, I have a passion for creating a welcoming teaching environment that encourages critical thinking and provides students with marketable skills. I am dedicated to the open-access paradigm and am excited to continue developing the materials found on the github repository to make them flexible and accessible to use for others.
At East Tennessee State University, my primary teaching appointment will be in the undergraduate political science program, introducing students to Research Methods and American Government. In these courses, I incorporate frequent feedback from students through surveys and other methods to continually improve my skills as an instructor. In Research Methods, in particular, I rely on active learning techniques which engage students in the processes of data analysis during the course time. This improves confidence in what can be intimidating material for social science students accustomed to avoiding math and statistics. At ETSU, I taught Core MPA courses such as Policy Analysis and Introduction to Public Administration.
Evaluation Excerpts:
Instructor Evaluations for PSC 4220, Policy Process Theories, at the University of Oklahoma.
Evaluations from Fall 2019 at East Tennessee State University.
Evaluations from Spring 2020 (COVID19 affected) at East Tennessee State University.
From Graduate Research Methods:
Both Dr. Ripberger and Wesley Wehde invite students to ask questions and are attentive to make sure difficult or confusing material is well understood.
Wesley contributes to our ability to understand as well. The lab portions are very helpful and the amount we work in R, is very helpful. I was concerned with learning how to use R and be able to produce working code– but as the semester has progressed, Dr. Ripberger and Wesley are very good at helping us problem solve.
Dr. Ripberger and Wesley, personally, do a great job. They are able to answer a variety of questions. They are able to create a positive working environment.
Wesley is able to teach us so much! He needs to remain confident in his ability! Going through readings on Wednesday were great. We were able to understand real applications of what we were learning in class. That is so great!
Dr. Ripberger and Wesley Wehde were both very informative, engaging, helpful, and professional. It’s clear that they care about students and the subject matter; I can’t think of anything specific that needs improving.
