Teaching Philosophy

I am a dedicated educator and researcher with a Ph.D. in Physical Geography from the Chengdu Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). My teaching philosophy is centered on cultivating intellectual curiosity, encouraging innovation, and fostering collaboration to prepare students for dynamic, real-world career environments.

Teaching Experience and Pedagogical Approach

Since earning my University & College Teaching Certificate in China in 2006, I have committed myself to higher education, advancing from Assistant to Associate Professor at Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications. Over a seven-year tenure, I taught a range of undergraduate and graduate courses, including GIS Software Application and Development, Digital Elevation Models, and WebGIS, where I consistently combined rigorous theoretical foundations with practical, real-world applications.

For technical courses such as GIS Software Application and Development, I emphasized hands-on, experiential learning. Classes were held in computer labs equipped with ArcGIS, where students engaged in real-time demonstrations and collaborative projects that mirrored industry scenarios. This interactive environment not only enhanced technical competencies but also nurtured creative problem-solving and teamwork.

In more theoretical courses like Digital Elevation Models, I enriched the curriculum with insights from my own research. This gave students exposure to advanced analytical tools such as topographic attribute extraction and flow direction modeling, and invited them to engage critically with the material. Their feedback and perspectives contributed meaningfully to both my teaching and ongoing research, creating a reciprocal learning environment.

Mentorship and Student Success

As a mentor, I have actively supported both undergraduate and graduate students in research, technical development, and professional readiness. From 2009 to 2013, I supervised four graduate students working on GIS-based system design for real-world industry applications. These projects, developed in collaboration with external partners, provided practical experience and helped students transition successfully into careers in GIS, geospatial analysis, and environmental modeling.

All of my mentees went on to secure positions in competitive fields, a testament to the effectiveness of applied mentorship. I have also co-authored several peer-reviewed articles with students, reinforcing my commitment to academic excellence and collaborative scholarship.

Scholarly Contributions and Recognition

Beyond teaching, I actively contribute to pedagogical research in GIS and curriculum innovation. I have published six academic papers on GIS education, instructional strategies, and course design. My teaching excellence has been recognized through several awards, including the Young Teacher Excellence Award in 2010 and multiple nominations for national teaching competitions. I have also been honored as a Teaching Exemplar and Outstanding Instructor.

Philosophy in Practice

At the core of my teaching is a belief in empowering students to become lifelong learners and critical thinkers. My approach is guided by four key principles:

1. Knowledge Transfer – Delivering clear, foundational instruction in core theories and technical skills.

2. Inspiring Enthusiasm – Creating engaging, relevant, and curiosity-driven learning experiences.

3. Guidance and Support – Providing mentorship that respects individual challenges while promoting independent thinking.

4. Community Impact – Equipping students to apply their knowledge in ways that benefit society and the environment.

With extensive teaching experience, innovative course design, and a strong research foundation, I am well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to your academic community. I am passionate about nurturing future professionals in geospatial science and environmental modeling, and I look forward to collaborating with faculty and students to foster educational excellence.