Benjamin Roulston

Active & Flipped Learning

Many of my courses use a flipped classroom model, where students engage with core material before class through short videos and targeted questions. Class time is then devoted to guided problem solving, conceptual discussion, and peer instruction, allowing students to actively work through ideas with immediate feedback.

Data-Driven Instruction

I regularly incorporate real scientific data, models, and simulations into coursework so that students gain experience working with the same types of tools used in research. This includes analyzing astronomical and space environment datasets, exploring physical models, and visualizing results to build physical intuition.

Collaborative Learning

Students frequently work in small groups on problems, labs, and projects. These collaborative activities encourage discussion, multiple problem-solving approaches, and peer learning, while helping students develop communication and teamwork skills.

Assessment & Feedback

I use a combination of low-stakes assessments, formative feedback, and reflection to monitor student understanding and adapt instruction. This approach reduces anxiety around evaluation while providing students with regular opportunities to assess and improve their learning.

IMPETUS Program

Through the IMPETUS program, I lead and support hands-on STEM activities for middle and high school students focused on coding, robotics, and physics. These activities emphasize problem solving, collaboration, and exploration, helping students build confidence and awareness of STEM pathways.

Community & Observatory Outreach

I regularly participate in public observing nights, school visits, and campus outreach events that use the observatory as a platform for engaging the broader community in astronomy and science.