Pamela Coughlin
Academics, Faculty
Pamela Coughlin
Captain, Assistant Professor of Nautical Science
Education:
California Maritime Academy – Advanced Firefighting, STCW Basic, Bridge Resource Management, RADAR, and ARPA
Houston Marine Training – 1600 Ton Ocean Master & 2nd Mate Unlimited
About
Professional Interests
Technical piloting skills and cultural understanding in Pacific regions.
Teaching Philosophy
- Learning by Doing: I believe in fostering a classroom environment built on experiential learning. This means students will actively engage with the material through projects, simulations, and hands-on activities, solidifying knowledge through experience.
- Mindful Learning: I incorporate mindfulness practices into my teaching. Taking short meditation breaks or reflective exercises can help students focus, manage stress, and approach learning with greater clarity and purpose.
- EQ for Success: Developing high emotional intelligence (EQ) is crucial for navigating academic and personal challenges. I integrate activities that encourage self-awareness, empathy, and healthy communication, building well-rounded individuals.
- Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Collaboration is a vital life skill. I design group projects and activities that encourage students to work effectively in teams, fostering communication, problem-solving, and shared responsibility.
Building a Growth Mindset: I create a supportive and encouraging classroom environment where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities. This fosters a “growth mindset” where students are empowered to challenge themselves and embrace lifelong learning.
Personal Interests
- Interconnectedness: I strive for harmony between humans, with nature, and within myself. I believe in fostering positive relationships and promoting environmental stewardship.
- Health and Well-being: I prioritize a holistic approach to wellness, integrating physical fitness, mindfulness practices, and a whole-food plant-based diet for optimal health and vitality.
- Endurance Sports: I am passionate about training and running ultramarathons, which challenge me to push my physical and mental limits while surrounded by nature, and build camaraderie with others.
- Plant-Based Nutrition: I believe in nourishing my body with whole, unprocessed plant-based foods to fuel my active lifestyle and minimize environmental impact.
- Mindfulness and Inner Peace: I cultivate mindfulness through practices that foster self-awareness, inner peace, and a sense of balance.