My teaching philosophy is informed by 2 basic principles:

1. 1. The STEM (science/technology/engineering/mathematics) disciplines are *skills* based. Consequently, effectively pedagogy for any of these disciplines must include a large problem-solving component. Effectively teaching a skills discipline cannot be just follow a “lecture-then-test” paradigm.
   2. Effectively teaching problem-solving skills requires maximizing the instructor’s ability to tailor the particular instructional elements to the individual student. In an ideal world, 1-to-1 tutoring would be the chosen methodology. Since 1-to-1 tutoring is not realistic in most settings, the instructors must strive to get as close to that ideal as possible. The best way to maximize the instructor’s ability to customize instruction is to use class-wide problem-solving sessions. Not only is the instructor’s time optimized, but students can use insights from fellow students as well.