Current Courses
Spring 2025
-
FCS 3380-090
Soc Sci & Hlth CareLocation: ONLN (Online) -
FCS 3380-290
Soc Sci & Hlth CareLocation: ONLN (Online) -
HSP 5000-002
HSP CapstoneLocation: GC 2950 (GC 2950), GC 5620 (GC 5620) -
HSP 5000-090
HSP Capstone
Teaching Philosophy
As a sociologist and educator originally from Norway, I bring a global perspective to my teaching, enriched by a long career in healthcare administration and a passion for qualitative and mixed-methods research. My professional experience and academic background shape my approach, enabling me to connect sociological concepts with practical, real-world applications. Teaching, for me, is about fostering curiosity and critical thinking while helping students recognize the relevance of sociology in their personal and professional lives.
Over the past 11 years, I have taught a wide range of courses, including sociology, consumer studies, business courses, and capstone courses as part of a Health, Society, and Policy (HSP) teaching collaborative. My teaching spans multiple formats—online, traditional classroom, and intensive two-week sessions—which has taught me the importance of flexibility and creativity in meeting the needs of my students. I use a variety of tools, including multimedia resources, case studies, collaborative projects, and interactive discussions, to engage learners and support different learning styles.
My background in healthcare administration and my passion for qualitative research enable me to bridge theory and practice effectively. I particularly enjoy guiding students through the process of asking meaningful questions, exploring consumer behavior, analyzing societal trends, and applying sociological insights to complex issues in healthcare and business. By doing so, I help students connect academic learning to professional and societal challenges.
Ultimately, my goal is to empower students to take ownership of their learning journey. I aim to create a learning environment that is challenging yet supportive, equipping students with the skills to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage meaningfully with the world around them. I strive to inspire students to question assumptions, evaluate evidence, and develop their own perspectives that will serve them well in their academic and professional pursuits.