It has been said that learning is simply remembering what we already know. One of my favorite teaching techniques is the use of analogies. Too often, the essence of a technical subject is cluttered by semantics. In many cases, by stripping away jargon, the key elements of a new concept can be related to daily experience or topics previously learned. Searching for accurate analogies and determining their limitations can be a challenge, but the search process itself improves the quality of the education I can offer by letting me think outside the box.
Students learn best by doing.
While in-class demonstrations take time, I have found that actively involving the class helps students more effectively internalize the concepts. Undergraduate researchers are an integral part of my experimental team. Given careful training and a focused project, they can be enthusiastic and effective researchers. Watching them develop their scientific skills and seeing them discover new career options always delights me. Learning is a two-way street.