Course Title: Natural History of Protected Areas

Fall, 2000

University of Pittsburgh

Office of Measurement and Evaluation of Teaching

Survey of Student Opinion of Teaching

Unedited Summary of “Your instructor would like to know if there is something you believe he/she has done especially well in teaching this course.”

This class has challenged me to be more active in nature and my environment. I have moved from just observing to participating. This class has made me seriously think about trying to set up some type of private reserve or protected area in my home state. Prof. Silverberg has made me aware that there is a lot more out there and a lot more to learn.

He has so much knowledge and experience in his subject. He really knew his stuff and could always think of an example story that could illustrate an idea of situation very well so learning in his class seemed much more practical and interesting. He was also very concerned that his assignments were helpful to us as a learning tool and not just busy work.

Enthusiasm and energy exuding from Silverberg. Excels my level of interest and educational advancement. Silverberg’s care and concern for individual student situations, needs, nurturing and growth were prime ingredients to his outstanding instruction. Thirdly, his knowledge is vast, yet his teaching of that knowledge brings it into a scope that is comprehensible to those new to the subject.

David is endlessly fascinated by the subject he teaches, and has the uncanny ability to make everyone listening to him just as fascinated. His energy and enthusiasm created the ideal learning environment, and his ample experience in the field inspired me to seek out similar experiences in the future. He is by far the most engaging professor I have ever had.

I believe his excitement for the subject matter was wonderful. It made me learn more and want to participate more than any other class.

Yes. The enthusiasm which spilled from David was motivating and also very attention getting. I understood and became interested in pretty much all of the topics addressed in this course. His personal experiences which helped him relate to the material were fascinating.

David, you are a great professor. I love your enthusiasm and love of the subject. The way in which you incorporate your own experiences has been extremely helpful.

David is a very enthusiastic and energetic instructor which adds to his effectiveness in teaching.

Enthusiasm was wonderful and extensive knowledge and explanation of various environments in all their complexity was both enlightnening and wonderful. I now understand the world’s environments so much better and with much more concern now. Thank you!

The adaption from assigned work to the work we turn in helped since it flowed with the pace of the class.