At age 22, as a teaching assistant at Stanford University, she told a ranking faculty member that the course was big on jokes but short on teaching. After being asked to prove she could do it better, she wound up teaching the same course the next semester. I have a real interest in exploring a topic with students who are interested. On the Haas School faculty since 1988, Beckman is a senior lecturer in manufacturing and information technology, teaching introductory operations management and new product development. Her creative approach to teaching MBA students can be seen in her new product development course.
Students organize themselves into teams to develop a product idea and finish with a prototype.
Results have included a mat that folds into a children's play structure and a spill-proof portable coffee mug that attaches to backpacks by a carabiner clip. He's one of her biggest fans. It is Sara's thoughtful contemplation, insight, loving but firm manner that make her such an exceptional teacher. Carolyn Bertozzi's teaching success stems from approaching class as if it were a small laboratory group meeting - even when the associate professor of chemistry is lecturing to 600 students. Students in Bertozzi's undergraduate and graduate organic chemistry classes say her enthusiasm is infectious.