Professor of Psychology
Wilson, NC

On what he wants you to get from his class:
I want students to feel excited, motivated, and challenged.  That’s what a quality educational experience should be.  I enjoy teaching, and I want students to understand that education can be exciting.  My desire is to initiate an interest in learning that can be transferred to any class.  Hopefully students leave my class realizing that learning is a lifelong activity.

On how his students get engaged:
I begin with high expectations of students, and assume each individual wants to achieve his or her full potential.  Many of my classes resemble conversations rather than lectures.  By asking questions to promote active thinking about the material, students tend to retain more information.  In addition, an internship is a required component of the psychology major.  Because of our size, we are able to match students with an agency that meets their interests.  For example, our students have been placed business settings, worked with prison psychologists, applied the principles of sports psychology to a tennis team, studied ergonomics, and examined sleep disorders.

On the best part about teaching:
The most fascinating aspect of teaching is watching students synthesize their knowledge and experiences.  For example, last spring I took several students to a professional conference where they presented a project we completed.  Observing them respond to questions about the research and converse confidently with professionals in the field of psychology was amazing.  This was such a clear demonstration that all of their efforts had come together.

On working with students:
Every student can be reached, it’s just a matter of discovering how.  Education can be a struggle, but with effort and appropriate support, it is well worth it.  My ultimate goal is to teach students how to learn, not simply what to learn about.  Barton’s size helps me achieve this goal.  We’re small enough that I have the time to work with students as individuals.

Peter is a nature lover and enjoys pottery when he has time.