Teaching Philosophy of Dr. Chien-hong Lin

Dr. Lin’s teaching philosophy are two core tenets: 1) effective communication between students and instructors is essential, and 2) instill students the ability to integrate theory and practical applications. Through these beliefs, he motivates students to take initiative of their learning and build up critical thinking skills, and eventually helps students become independent thinkers.

​

Dr. Lin identifies course objectives and students’ background to ensure that students and he are on the same page of the course vision at the beginning of the class. Next, well-prepared course materials together with organized presentation is the most important stage to conduct a good course. Also, the ability to recognize students’ questions and to respond accordingly is crucial. Through effective communication, students are more likely to be self-driven learners.

​

Dr. Lin noted the importance of the interpersonal relationships from his industrial experience at Honghua America LLC. As a Manufacturing Assistant Manager, Dr. Lin successfully built trust among his ~50 employees through interpersonal connections and immersion in Mexican, American and Chinese cultures. Dr. Lin had won the Employee of the Quarter Award from there because of his extraordinary management skills. Dr. Lin’s multinational experience has prepared him for the kind of interpersonal leadership required in the teaching of diverse students.

​

Dr. Lin’s teaching is influenced by his research in computational mechanics and his experience in petroleum industry. Mathematical rigor and physical insights are both vital for students to learn how to apply in-class knowledge to solve out-class engineering problems. For instance, Dr. Lin uses actuator design as an example to demonstrate how to utilize micromechanics models to design a two-phase bimorph for desired performance.

 

Teaching is a challenging endeavor but it is rewarding. Dr. Lin is eager to help his students become talented, creative, and ultimately independent thinkers. The mentorship and first-hand research collaborations with his graduate students have to be the most significant and lasting contributions of Dr. Lin’s professional life, which cannot be measured by any award but only by the appreciation shown by his students.