Kurt M. Regner

Assistant Professor in Residence

Ph.D. University of Wisconsin, Madison

Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Education

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

kurt.regner@unlv.edu

My professional and scholarly goals include:

• Teaching excellence
• Implementing a problem based approach in biology courses
• Promoting the benefits of undergraduate research fellowships
• Providing effective training for graduate students
• Teaching Philosophy

I have attempted to introduce a problem based approach in the lower division biology courses using a variety of methods. First, I introduce lecture topics with a question or hypothesis that requires resolution. I currently use the iclicker® classroom response system to survey students on how they believe the introductory question should be addressed. Second, I regularly assign review articles that complement the lecture material and textbook. The review articles also serve as a source of exam questions. Third, I do not to ask definition type exam questions. In an attempt to encourage critical thinking skills, exam questions require the integration of two of more concepts.