Fred Hafer puts the physical into physical science. A geologist’s version of Robin Williams’ character in “Dead Poet’s Society,” Hafer has been known to channel that creative teaching spirit, encouraging students to see the world in news ways, even if that means climbing on the furniture to make a point.

 

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“You can talk about this all day long,” he said. “But if you show it, it is better.”

As he demonstrated the conservation of angular momentum, Hafer placed a rotating chair on top of his desk, climbed right on top and began to spin with dumbbells in each outstretched hand. Hafer got some help from a figurine of Queen Elizabeth II to demonstrate the effect of different wavelengths of light on a photoelectric cell.

“Longer wavelengths like red and green light have no effect on the queen,” said Hafer. “But when violet light shines on her handbag (where the photocell is), she waves!”

Michael Anzures, 28, a liberal studies major, said Hafer’s class is intriguing because he wakes students up better than a large cup of coffee.

“For being a morning class, he is entertaining and funny, such a wealth of information,” Anzures said. “It gets the class energized, it gets them involved. He has a great sense of humor and he brings all the equations to life.”

Iliana Gonzalez, 28, a liberal studies major, said Hafer is always captivating.

“He incorporates experiments,” said Gonzalez. “You get to watch how the things he is lecturing about come alive.”

Gonzalez said Hafer’s material is entertaining but not easy. Anzures agreed.

“It’s dedication,” Anzures said. “As long as you are dedicated to his class, you’ll be just fine.”

Hafer has been a part of the Earth Science department since Fall of 2000. Since that time he has taught physical geography, oceanography and geology, along with other earth science courses including introduction to physical science, cultural geography, and the labs for the Earth Science Department.

“I try to teach all of the classes in the Earth Science department,” he said. “I like to be flexible. My knowledge base is pretty broad.”

Earth Science knowledge grows daily, said Hafer, so he studies constantly.

“I try to keep myself up to date and take seminars frequently,” said Hafer. “You have to keep on top, things are changing and technology is progressing.”

As an adjunct instructor of Earth Science for 12 years, Hafer’s education started at a community college after serving four years in the military.

“I started at a community college, just like this one,” he said.

Community college is where Hafer took interest in physical sciences. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in physical geography at the University of Florida, then a Master’s in geography at the University of South Florida.

“I went back and got a another degree in geology this time at the University of Florida and I got a job in the oil field as a geologist and oil well logger.”

Hafer came to California, interviewed with Southwestern College, was hired that day and began the following day. After 12 years Hafer has not lost his comic touch. As he climbs on furniture, creates captivating lectures and receives help from Queen Elizabeth II every now and then, Hafer does not mind getting physical to teach all things physical.