Teaching

Teaching Philosophy

I believe that deep understanding of quantitative methods requires both rigorous mathematical foundations and meaningful application to real problems. My courses aim to demystify statistical and psychometric concepts while maintaining intellectual honesty about their complexity.

I am increasingly incorporating AI tools into my teaching—both as a subject of study and as a pedagogical aid. I view AI as an opportunity to help students engage more deeply with difficult concepts, not as a shortcut around the hard work of learning.

Courses

I teach graduate-level courses in the Research and Evaluation Methodology program at CU Boulder.

Current Courses

Course Title Description
EDUC 8230 Quantitative Methods I Introduction to statistical reasoning and analysis for educational research
EDUC 8710 Measurement in Survey Research Principles of measurement as applied to survey design and analysis
EDUC 8720 Psychometric Modeling: Item Response Theory Theory and application of IRT models
EDUC 8740 Latent Variable and Structural Equation Modeling Advanced methods for modeling latent constructs

Teaching Resources

I have developed several resources to support student learning:

Interactive Learning Modules

Course Materials

Course materials are available to enrolled students through Canvas.

Student Mentoring

I welcome inquiries from prospective graduate students interested in:

  • Educational measurement and psychometrics
  • Validity theory and argument
  • Quantitative methods in education
  • The intersection of AI and assessment

Please see the CU Boulder School of Education for information about our graduate programs.

Office Hours

Current students: Please schedule office hours through Canvas or email me directly at derek.briggs@colorado.edu.

Prospective students: I am happy to discuss our programs. Please email with your background and interests.