Dr. Christiansen is passionate about teaching, particularly undergraduate students. She is also committed to increasing diversity in geosciences, which is currently one of the least diverse STEM fields, by creating an inclusive, student-centered classroom environment. She has experience with a variety of courses and has been formally trained in pedagogy. Her efforts led to her being nominated for the Provost's Award for Excellence in Teaching.
Courses at UMKC
CHEM 445, Introduction to the Principles of Forensic Chemistry. A survey of the physicochemical forensic techniques employed in the detection, examination, processing, preservation and court presentation of evidence. Co-enrollment with CHEM 495 (Directed Readings) involves activities and projects to explore forensic chemical practices in depth.
CHEM 388 / 5588, Environmental Chemistry II. This project-based course delves in-depth into relevant environmental chemistry topics, including climate change and geoengineering, atmospheric chemistry, toxic waste, and pollutants of emerging concern. It focuses on fostering a more complete understanding of how the various spheres (atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere) interact with each other, and how chemistry influences our understanding of environmental issues.
CHEM 387 / 5587, Environmental Chemistry I. This course covers introductory topics in environmental chemistry including atmospheric chemistry, aquatic chemistry, and toxics. It focuses on the the chemical aspects of human interaction with the environment, and how chemistry is intertwined in environmental policies and regulations.
CHEM 390, Special Topics in Chemistry. This course focuses on soft skills soon-to-be chemistry graduates need for success after college, including cover letters, resumes, interview skills, and professional communication.
CHEM 211L, Experimental General Chemistry I. Introduction to the laboratory techniques used in studying the chemical properties of substances. Some quantitative techniques are included.
Past Courses
Chem 1X at UCI, General Chemistry Plus. This course is a co-enrollment course with the first quarter of General Chemistry (Chem 1A) and offers supplementary chemistry and math material to assist students whose SAT, ACT, or AP scores would not otherwise allow them to enroll in Chem 1A.
Pedagogical Training
UMKC Center for Advancing Faculty Excellence Faculty Learning Community on Accessible Teaching and Learning: Small faculty intensive group focused on learning best practices behind accessible course design, inclusive assessment, and digital accessibility.
Mobile Summer Institute on Scientific Teaching: Summer intensive course at the University of Montana on evidence-based practices to create inclusive, student-centered learning experiences and improve outcomes.
UNI STU 390X: Developing Teaching Excellence: Quarter-long course offered through the University of California, Irvine, for graduate students to learn fundamental pedagogical research and develop effective teaching practices.
University of California, Irvine, Course Design Certificate: Earned with design of a course syllabus, including all readings, exercises, and exams.
University of California, Irvine, Center for the Integration of Research, Teaching, and Learning Associate Level: 12 hours of evidence-based teaching training; 3 hours of training in Learning through Diversity; 3 hours of training in Teaching as Research; participation in one quarter of a learning community that meets weekly.