Photo by Pathik Shah

Attending a math class won’t remind most students of being in a gym, but it should, according to mathematics professor Vern Paulsen, a 2008 recipient of the Teaching Excellence Award.

“Lectures should be like a good workout,” Paulsen said. “They should start at a pace and level that every student should easily follow. Then, after the warm up, the pace should be comfortable while still pushing the B students, but throw in a few wind sprints so only the A students can keep up.”

Hailed by one of his colleagues as one of the most popular professors in mathematics, Paulsen’s classes typically attract nearly twice as many students as other graduate courses.

Recipients of the Teaching Excellence Award receive a trophy and a $5,000 check. Nominees must demonstrate excellence in teaching.

Ann Holdsworth
Staff writer

View full list of 2008 award recipients                          Past award recipients