Exceptional Early Career Award: Elizabeth Karcher

Elizabeth Karcher, recipient of the 2019 Exceptional Early Career Award. (Purdue University photo/Mark Simons) Download image

In recognition of outstanding undergraduate teaching, two pre-tenure professors recently received the 2019 Exceptional Early Career Award for tenure-track faculty. This profile is with award recipient Elizabeth Karcher, assistant professor and undergraduate programs coordinator in the Department of Animal Sciences.

Years at Purdue: 3.

Teaching interests: My research in learning focuses on the development of innovative experiential learning platforms to enhance student learning and develop intercultural competencies in undergraduate animal sciences curricula. I am continually exploring activities inside and outside of the classroom for students to become involved and engaged. Since joining Purdue in 2016, I’ve created two new study abroad programs that challenge students to think about agriculture on a global scale. Relating course material to the student and providing opportunities to independently explore course concepts is a key interest in my teaching program.

How her interaction with students is rewarding: One of my favorite aspects of my job is the ability to develop relationships with my students. Whether it is serving as a mentor or as an instructor, I place high value on creating an environment for my students that allows for openness and a mutual respect. Study abroad programming is an example of an opportunity to engage students outside of the traditional classroom setting. Traveling with students is an adventure. Whether it be sampling the culinary delights of Italy or watching Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi, each program offers unique opportunities to explore the world with students. No two programs or experiences are alike. Taking the time to know my students and let them know I care results in the reward of relationship development.

On how extracurricular activities expand more opportunities to students: Experiences, like the North American Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge, assist in developing students’ critical thinking skills as well as interpersonal skills. The ability to work on a team and problem solve are qualities sought after by many employers. Participation in programs outside of traditional classes allows a student to use the knowledge learned on campus and apply it in a real-world setting. Networking opportunities with peers and potential future employers are also more likely when a student seeks out these types of experiences.

On how traveling with learning communities and study abroad improves student learning outside the classroom: Traveling abroad allows a person to become more aware of their own culture. Once this occurs, they are able to develop the skills to become aware of other cultures and express an openness and curiosity to cultures other than their own. In agriculture, study abroad can provide a global context to appreciate the ways in which we will meet the major challenges of feeding a growing population. Our students are the future leaders in agriculture, and study abroad programs provide opportunities for our students to develop critical skills and be global-ready.

Why she feels it’s important to be involved in undergraduate student research: In addition to study abroad programs, undergraduate research is another example of a high impact practice. Students who participate in high impact practice experience a number of positive benefits including increased engagement with faculty, increased peer network and increased critical thinking skills. As an educator, I place value on engaging students in undergraduate research. Working with students allows me to help them discover the scientific method in action. My students are involved with all aspects of their projects from the literature review to disseminating their research findings. I often bring undergraduates with me to scientific meetings so they can network and share their story with others in the field. I also engage my graduate students in the mentoring process. Working with undergraduates on our team is an opportunity for professional development for my graduate students.

On what makes a great lecture of engaging lesson: When I think back to my days as an undergraduate at Pennsylvania State University, the teachers who had the most impact on my learning where those who were great storytellers and expressed compassion and understanding to their students. They were able to relate the material to my life and provide opportunities to grow a deeper understanding of the course concepts. Their passion and excitement for the topic could light up a room and capture the attention of the audience. There are many ways teachers can be engaging. My teaching philosophy includes creating a student-centered, active learning environment. I use case studies and laboratories to capture interest and grow excitement. My students and I are share the journey together. In the end, a great lecture stimulates student curiosity and promotes a desire to continue learning.

What her students say: Working with Dr. Liz Karcher was a wonderful experience due to her commitment to helping me grow professionally and academically. Many of the achievements I earned through my undergraduate studies were possible due to the work I did with Dr. Karcher’s guidance, and I am very grateful to have worked with someone who has a great passion to helping students grow. ... You can tell she loves what she does, and teaching students is her passion. ... She created a learning environment that spans across and diffuses out of the classroom. Her positivity, and enthusiasm to teach is harnessed by her students as inspiration to excel. I also had the privilege of being in her study abroad course to Vietnam. In the months leading up to the trip, she was able to transform any classroom into a simulation on cultural awareness and sensitivity with ease. The level of engagement she has with her students is built on a groundwork of trust in the importance of everything we are learning. I never wondered what we are doing is relative to what is important in the real world because everything she does is so meticulous and thought out. If she can make facts on Indiana poultry production absolutely fascinating, she can do anything. Just watch her.”

Writer: Kelsey Schnieders Lefever, kschnied@purdue.edu