To me the most important part of teaching is helping the process of learning occur.  I consider my role as a "guide on the side" rather than the "sage on the stage".  You could even say that I use biology (and interdisciplinary studies) as the tool to help people learn how to learn.  I obtained my PhD so that I would be able to teach at an institution where the students were there because they wanted to be there, not required to be there.  I find the concept and process of motivation key to learning and welcome feedback about what motivates us to do what we do.   

I believe the responsibility of learning is shared between the instructor and students and that an enthusiastic, positive environment fosters the gaining of knowledge.  Teachers should be clear and concise about the goals and minimum basic requirements of any class.  Repetition and enthusiasm are key to effective teaching.  Students should be given numerous different opportunities to hear, read, digest and use the information.  I set and maintain high standards for my students and myself and strongly believe in the power of positive reinforcement.  I strive to use effective teaching methods that include un-graded writing, active hands-on learning, peer and self-evaluation, workshops, research projects, and incorporating computer technology in the classroom.  All of these effective methods stress outcomes-based, student-centered learning.  I am a constructivist, and prefer to teach as a facilitator of learning rather than a distributor of knowledge.