Aside from research, I also devote my time to is teaching and pedagogy. Below are some courses that I have taught and TA-ed for throughout my career so far.
Past Courses
Freshman Research Initiative (FRI), UT Austin
- Teaching Assistant and Mentor, Spring 2019, 2020, 2021
FRI is a two-semester course meant for new college students to delve into Astronomy research early in their careers. As a TA and mentor, I will help them get acquainted with research practices, including but not limited to coding, interpreting literature, and exploring data.
AST 376R: A Practical Introduction to Research Methods, UT Austin
- Teaching Assistant, Fall 2019
AST 376R introduces students to common astronomy research tools like DS9, TOPCAT, ADS, and programming in python, as well as necessary research skills like good plotting practices and writing research papers. The class culminated in students presenting their original research work using the tools and skill set they have acquired through out the semester.
AST 307: Introduction to Astronomy, UT Austin
- Teaching Assistant, Fall 2017 and 2018
AST 307 is an introductory Astronomy class with a heavier focus on math-based problems. I conducted regular office hours and for one of the semesters, held a separate help session before exams to better prepare students.
Astronomy Structured Study Group (SSG), University of Michigan
- Course Syllabus
- Instructor, Fall 2015
The SSG is an Honors supplement to introductory 100-level Astronomy courses. Students are required to be concurrently enrolled in any of ASTRO 101, 102, 104, 115, and 142. Performance in the SSG does not affect their grade in the course nor does it grant extra credits. Successfully completing the SSG will provide students with an ‘H’ (Honors) next to your course grade on the transcript.
Through the Structured Study Group we, Adham and I, hope to have supplemented the introductory level astronomy courses with more in-depth discussion sections on a wide breadth of exciting and engaging topics. These discussions are intended for the motivated student who is seeking to go beyond their course to learn more about the cosmos.
Some testimonials from SSG students:
“They were awesome and made it a great semester. But seriously, I think the excitement and fun that they brought to the class really made SSG my favorite academic event of the week. Content and structure were great, but it really boils down to how much energy and interest the SSG leaders bring to the class.”
“I don’t really have any big ways to improve it. I think SSG was my favorite class this semester, and I really appreciate Dreia and Adham for leading it, they were really excellent – funny, knowledgable, and they made the content accessible and fun.”