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.

Advice for Prospective PhD Applicants

If you are considering applying to the REM PhD program and want to know whether I am accepting new advisees, please read my Advice to Prospective Applicants to the REM PhD Program. It explains how REM admissions and funding work, when I meet with applicants, and what I look for in a statement of purpose.

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
EDUC 8804 Using Artificial Intelligence in Academic Research Critical exploration of generative AI as a collaborative partner across the research lifecycle, from idea generation to dissemination (new for Fall 2026)

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

If you are considering applying to the REM PhD program, please first read my advice for prospective applicants.

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: Please read my advice for prospective applicants first. If you still have specific questions it does not answer, email me with those questions.