Tyson Putthoff, Ph.D.
Lecturer, College of Professional and Continuing Studies
Tell us more about yourself.
I hold several degrees in ancient Near Eastern, biblical, and religious studies, including a Ph.D. from Durham University (Durham, UK). I’ve been in higher education for more than a decade and have published six books, along with a number of essays and articles. Outside of work, I’m a big OU sports fan and spend a lot of time watching and playing basketball with my wife and kids.
What is your best teaching tip for other instructors?
Respond, respond, respond. Quick, genuine engagement, whether by email, on discussion boards, or through assignment feedback, makes all the difference for our students. Feedback doesn’t always have to be long or highly academic; it just needs to be real. While announcements have their place, students already receive a lot of them, so I try to be strategic and selective, focusing on personal interaction as much as possible.
What is your favorite course and why?
I’ve been lucky to teach courses I truly enjoy, including religious studies, biblical studies, and topics that sit at the center of my background and research interests. It’s a joy to teach in the same areas that I research and to help students explore these subjects in fresh ways.
Is there a student or class that has left a lasting impact on you?
Many students have inspired me over the years, but a few stand out, particularly those who have faced significant challenges outside the classroom and still pushed through with remarkable perseverance. Their grit and determination are the kinds of qualities that stay with you as an instructor.
