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"The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and the think critically. Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education."

Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King

COURSES TAUGHT

While at UT Dallas, I have taught and lectured in environmental sciences courses in the School of Interdisciplinary Studies and the School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics. At Purdue, I taught Critical Perspectives in Agriculture and TA'd for the departmental Research Methods course. Click the course title for more information.

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

My approach to teaching is informed by my identities as a socially critical and interdisciplinary scholar. While these identities inform my research, they also inform how, what, and why I teach. I seek to create an inclusive, welcoming classroom environment that encourages deep, thoughtful self-reflection, discussion, and critical thinking. Classroom community is at the foundation of my approach. My dedication to teaching and students' learning experiences was recognized by the university when I was selected as a runner-up for the 4th annual Teaching Award in the School of Interdisciplinary Studies at UT Dallas.

TESTIMONIALS

Dr. Cropps gave great feedback on the direction we were taking on our research and it helped me a lot with my own work.

Critical Perspectives in Agriculture student

This course fills a large void in Purdue Agriculture. It provides evidence that these topics are necessary to truly understand agricultural systems.

Critical Perspectives in Agriculture student

I liked how discussion-based the course was and I really like our group work. The in-class assignments were interesting and fun!

Environment in America student

Our discussions were eye opening. This course was very unique and it compelled me to learn about our environment, history and society.

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Environment in America student

Dr. Cropps was one of the best professors I've had at UTD, easily #1 in my top 3!

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Environment in America student

The roundtables for our project presentations was a great experience, and it was cool to be able to present to an audience of professors to practice professional development.

Environment in America student

I enjoyed when our groups made lesson plans and taught the readings to the class with an activity. It was really engaging and since many of us are interested in education, it was a really beneficial experience.

Environment in America student

Even though at times I struggled to read our weekly readings, this was a much-needed experience that I am glad I went through. Reading papers for my other classes is a breeze now.

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Environmental Justice student

Curious about how you can make your class more engaging?

© 2025 by Torrie Cropps
 

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