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Dr. Michelle B. Paustenbaugh

Education

Ph.D. at University of Utah
B.S. at University of Texas at Austin

 

Contact Information

Email: mpaustenbaugh@weber.edu
Phone: 801-626-7810
Office Location: 
Tracy Hall Science Center (TY)
Room 255E

 

 

Teaching Philosophy & Focus

Since childhood, I have been interested in understanding the natural world. Though intrigued by physics because of its scope from the smallest systems, sub-subatomic particles, to the largest, galaxies and the universe, I chose chemistry for its usefulness in everyday life. Chemistry explains how my car extracts energy from gasoline, how the choices in my diet affect my blood sugar, and how ibuprofen helps with aches and pains after a long hike with my dogs. In teaching, I want to share this knowledge, encourage others to use it, and discover more. Chemistry is a wonderful subject to help people learn to think for themselves: identifying problems, creating plans to solve/study problems, identifying resources to solve those problems, and using time allotted (often limited) to solve problems. When interacting with my students, I direct my energy to help them realize their potential by working with their current skill set to increase their self-efficacy. My goals for my students are for them to cultivate their problem-solving skills and meaningful verbal and written communication of their work to others regardless of their chosen field.


Courses Taught

CHEM 1010 - Introductory Chemistry
CHEM 1110/1120 - Elementary Chemistry 
CHEM 1120 - Elementary Organic Biochemistry
CHEM 1360 - Principles of Physical Science
CHEM 1210 - Principles of Chemistry I
CHEM 1220 - Principles of Chemistry II
CHEM 3410 - Foundations in Physical Chemistry
CHEM 4990 - Senior Seminar

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Research Areas of Interest

Since earning my Ph.D. studying physical chemistry, my research interests have focused on chemistry education. Currently, I am working with students to develop inexpensive, green, and effective physical chemistry lab experiments. Students interested in chemistry education and physical chemistry are welcome to join me to improve the laboratory experience for chemistry and biochemistry majors taking the Foundations of Physical Chemistry, CHEM 3410. Additionally, I am interested in creating more productive ways to use class time for chemistry classes and how to make the classroom a more welcoming experience for students who may have some reservations about science and math coursework.


 

Let's Connect!


Advisor: Dr. Laine Berghout
chemistry@weber.edu
801-626-6952

 

Office Hours


Monday - Friday
7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Room TY255, Mail Code 2503

Mailing Address


Weber State University
Department of Chemistry
and Biochemistry

1415 Edvalson St., Dept. 2503
Ogden, UT 84408-2503

Building Location


Tracy Hall Science Center (TY)

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