Monday, September 9, 2024
"I love getting students engaged and excited about learning. To me, education goes beyond the mere transfer of information; education is about engaging students and equipping them to think critically and become lifelong learners." - Dr. Matthew Laske

First, tell us a little about yourself. Matthew Laske headshot
My name is Matthew Laske. I obtained my Ph.D. in Behavioral Psychology from the University of Kansas. I have an M.A. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and Human Resource Management and a graduate certificate in Data Analysis from Appalachian State University. I co-authored the book The Science and Best Practices of Behavioral Safety, which describes one of the most mature and impactful applications of behavioral science. I am passionate about improving the wellbeing and safety of employees in the workplace.

Why did you choose to study behavior analysis?
I stumbled into behavior analysis, really. My main goal has always been to help others. I found that understanding behavior was crucial to that important goal. So, behavior analysis was a natural fit.

What are your main areas of research, and why did you choose those specific areas?
I believe that research and practice should have social importance and aim towards improving the human condition and experience.

What do you enjoy most about teaching?
I love getting students engaged and excited about learning. To me, education goes beyond the mere transfer of information; education is about engaging students and equipping them to think critically and become lifelong learners.

What do you hope your students gain from your courses?
I want students in my courses gain a foundational level of learning (e.g., definitions and principles) and build up their repertoire through examples, modeling, and guided practice, to a higher level of learning (e.g., independent application).

What did you do before pursuing a career in academia, and why did you decide to pursue teaching instead?
I worked as a behavioral science specialist at a manufacturing organization. My role was to design, implement, and evaluate behavioral safety processes to prevent harm to people and our environment. I chose to pursue academia to give back to the community by teaching others about the science of human behavior.

When you’re not teaching, what do you enjoy doing?
I love to hike! If I am not in my office, I am usually on a trail somewhere.

Do you have any fun facts that others may not know about you?
I’m from Michigan, but have also lived in North Carolina, Tennessee, Kansas, Arkansas, and now Texas! I believe that I have picked up a little bit of an accent from each. :)