Xing Qinyan: Inspiring Student Exploration and Innovation at Tsinghua University
Xing Qinyan, an educator in the Department of Civil Engineering at Tsinghua University, has developed a notable rapport with her students through her commitment to teaching and education. Motivated by early influences from her own instructors, Xing embodies a teaching philosophy that promotes thorough problem analysis and encourages students to broaden their perspectives. This methodology fosters a dynamic and engaging learning environment.
Acknowledgments and Awards
In recognition of her contributions to education, Xing received the 8th Beijing Young Teacher Achievement Award in Higher Education in 2024. Her teaching philosophy is anchored in the principles of inheriting knowledge, innovating approaches, and advancing alongside students.
Course Feedback
The course “Structural Mechanics (I)” has received favorable feedback from students, who describe it as memorable and impactful. In addition, her “Writing and Communication” course consistently ranks among the top 5% of over 700 courses evaluated at Tsinghua University. Xing emphasizes the dual importance of utilizing foundational knowledge from previous educators and integrating innovative content and delivery methods in her teaching.
Clarifying Complex Concepts
To clarify complex engineering concepts, Xing effectively distills issues into core principles. For instance, in the “Structural Mechanics (I)” course, she compares the principle of constraint to the relationship between a table’s surface and its legs, thereby facilitating a deeper understanding through relatable analogies.
Merging Humanities and Science
Furthermore, Xing aims to merge the domains of humanities and science in her teaching practices. By incorporating cultural insights into engineering principles, she seeks to enhance the educational experience of her students, aligning practical civil engineering applications with traditional Chinese concepts.
Commitment to Students
Despite facing personal health challenges, Xing has remained dedicated to her teaching responsibilities while prioritizing her students’ educational experiences. Her attentive observation of students allows her to tailor her teaching methods in response to their needs, ultimately enriching their academic journey.
Building Relationships
Xing’s teaching style cultivates robust relationships with her students, who regard her not only as an instructor but also as a mentor. This engagement has led to her recognition as one of the “most helpful teachers” by undergraduate civil engineering graduates over the years.
Looking Ahead
Committed to nurturing each student’s potential, Xing stresses the significance of self-motivated growth. Looking ahead, she plans to continue adapting her teaching strategies based on her evolving understanding of student needs, reaffirming her dedication to their educational success and personal development.
Innovative Educational Practices
By focusing on student perspectives and creating personalized teaching methods, Xing Qinyan continues to promote innovative approaches within her educational practice at Tsinghua University.
Source: Tsinghua University News
