Teaching Background & Philosophy:
I approach my planning and teaching with the goal of students understanding course material on an intellectual while also connecting with it personally. My teaching has yielded excellent student evaluations, with scores averaging 4.96 out of 5 (min. = 4.87) with high response rates (50-100%).
My teaching philosophy follows three main tenets: (1) I encourage various modes of participation and learning to cultivate students' unique learning styles. (2) In my classes, I also provide ample opportunity for improvement and growth. (3) Of perhaps highest priority is understanding the unique needs of my students. As a disabled and chronically ill professor, I am acutely aware of the importance of students' personal contexts and backgrounds.
I approach my planning and teaching with the goal of students understanding course material on an intellectual while also connecting with it personally. My teaching has yielded excellent student evaluations, with scores averaging 4.96 out of 5 (min. = 4.87) with high response rates (50-100%).
My teaching philosophy follows three main tenets: (1) I encourage various modes of participation and learning to cultivate students' unique learning styles. (2) In my classes, I also provide ample opportunity for improvement and growth. (3) Of perhaps highest priority is understanding the unique needs of my students. As a disabled and chronically ill professor, I am acutely aware of the importance of students' personal contexts and backgrounds.
Courses taught/in progress:
- (Undergrad.) Sociological Theory
- (Undergrad.) Sociology of Disasters
- (Undergrad.) Health, Medicine, & Society
- (Grad.) Women, Gender, & Health
- (Grad.) Sociology of Health & Illness
- (Grad.) Sociology of Reproduction
Selected student testimonials:
"Dr. Berndt has been one of the most refreshing professors I have ever had during my academic career. Dr. Berndt has always been prepared, forthcoming, and very accommodating for those with disabilities. Dr. Berndt is very knowledgeable about her field and is supportive in answering questions that may be off topic and bringing it back around to the lesson at hand. Dr. Berndt is fully immersed in her role as a professor and truly cares for her students' success."
- Sociological Theory Student (TAMIU)
"What I liked most about the course is the precision given in each topic and the different styles of teaching. I really enjoy her class and also, given the chance, I would love to have her as a professor again in another course. I liked how the professor is always excited and in a good mood. She is always ready to teach us and she helps us with any concerns we may have."
- Sociology of Disasters student (TAMIU)
"The engagement and material provided every single time we met were what I liked most about this course. The expectations were clear since day one, yet the professor was always kind and willing to offer flexibility when needed."
- Sociology of Reproduction Graduate Student (TAMIU)