Some professors teach with overheads or PowerPoint. Some teach by lecture. Tom Dickinson teaches by demonstration. Hands-on demonstrations and in-class puzzlers (questions and problems) are essential to his course.
“He rarely lectures but instead focuses on furthering our deeper understanding in what I now can see are the basics of physics,” said Christopher Bates, undergraduate physics and biochemistry major. “He forced us to learn the equations and general topics on our own from our textbook so that he could clarify, build and correct us on the conceptual ideas.”
In addition to challenging students in the classroom, Dickinson pushes them to excel in the laboratory. His lab — filled with lasers, ultrahigh vacuum systems, spectrometers and atomic-force microscopes — is ideal for learning “on the job.”
“Typically I have five to six undergraduates working with me in the research lab,” he said. “Many of these people end up with publications and a chance at good graduate programs.”
His dedication to teaching students both in the classroom and the laboratory distinguishes Dickinson. He will be honored March 24 with the 2005-2006 Sahlin Faculty Excellence Award for Instruction.
“He’s really dedicated to undergraduate education,” said Matt McCluskey, associate professor of physics. “You consistently hear two things from his students: One, they love how different his classes are and, two, they are very enthusiastic about the impression the class has left on them — there is a lot of interaction between the students and Tom.”
Though many praise Dickinson’s teaching style, he sees his teaching on par with that offered at any top university.
“I ask students to get as much out of the classes as they can,” he said.
“I think a balance between teaching and research is very important, and WSU is in a position to continue encouraging that. This balance keeps us involved in breakthroughs in technology and science — and we are sending out the door outstanding students who are in high demand!” he said. “I think it is a win-win situation.”
Next Story
College of Arts and Sciences recognizes outstanding faculty, staff, and students
The college recognized 19 faculty, four staff, and seven graduate students for their achievements and commitment to excellence in 2024.
Recent News
Reusable containers a hit with students and the environment
By using the containers to take home food from the dining centers, WSU Pullman students are now saving thousands of pounds of food waste from going to the landfill.
WSU selects T. Chris Riley-Tillman as next provost
An experienced higher education leader and expert in evidence-based educational practices, Riley-Tillman has been selected to serve as WSU’s next provost.
Phyllis J. Campbell endows deanship at WSU’s Carson College of Business
The endowed deanship stems from a generous gift from Phyllis and Bill Campbell of Issaquah, who met as WSU undergraduates and married not long after Phyllis’ graduation.
Exhibit explores queer experience on the Palouse
An opening reception for “Higher Ground: An Exhibition of Art, Ephemera, and Form” will take place 6–8 p.m. Friday on the ground floor of the Terrell Library on the Pullman campus.
Spanish, bilingual course from WSU Extension creates climate ambassadors
To reach thousands of northwestern Washington residents who do not speak English fluently, WSU Extension is offering new environmental educational programs in Spanish.
VR can motivate people to donate to refugee crises regardless of politics
A new WSU-led study shows virtual reality technology may have the ability to bridge the gap between different ideologies and motivate people to show more generosity.