2023 Early Career Undergraduate Teaching Award
The Range Science Education Council (RSEC) and the Society for Range Management (SRM) proudly present the 2023 Early Career Teaching Award to Dr. Jason Karl, Associate Professor in the Department of Forest, Rangeland and Fire Sciences at the University of Idaho. The Early Career Teaching Award recognizes individuals in the early stages of their careers who demonstrate excellence in teaching, advising, and mentoring undergraduate students.
Dr. Karl is described by colleagues as “a consummate team player” who “consistently ignites great conversations about teaching philosophies and works…to find new and effective ways to offer the Rangeland Ecology and Management degree”. His colleagues respect “his sincere interest in supporting students in the classroom and beyond” and highlight his exceptional abilities to connect with students as he helps them learn about rangeland ecology and management. Dr. Karl is considered “one of the best instructors” that his department head has “had the privilege to work with over a 23-year career in academia” who “brings a fresh approach to the classroom and laboratory relying heavily on his past professional experiences and relationships”.
Students regularly identify Dr. Karl’s courses as the most interesting and impactful courses they took while at the University of Idaho. They appreciate the high-quality, informative and well-designed materials he develops and uses in his teaching. In addition, they value his approachability and the professional relationships he develops with his peers and students.
Students respond to Dr. Karl’s teaching and mentoring with tremendous appreciation. The following student quotes consistently highlight the high levels of respect and commitment that guide Dr. Karl’s teaching.
“This class is AMAZING! Layers of content that go from theory to application. The instructor developed media for this course is excellent. I mean, like really excellent.”
“Finally, I really appreciate the extra trouble this professor goes through to make the testing experiences…high quality. They are a lot more work to grade, I know. But I really felt like I got to demonstrate what I learned well…”
“I was very lucky to have Dr. Karl as a mentor and am thrilled that he was my advisor…”
“Dr. Karl did a phenomenal job at creating a hands-on environment…he is one of the best professors of my college experience”
In addition to Dr. Karl’s impressive teaching record, he volunteered to serve as the Range Club advisor, and mentors several student teams and student research projects. Dr. Karl’s teaching accomplishments and other professional contributions reflect the level of excellence expected at his home institution and in his profession.
Thus, for his outstanding contributions in the classroom and beyond, the Range Science Education Council and Society for Range Management are proud to recognize Dr. Karl with the 2023 Early Career Teaching Award.
Range Science Education Council 