Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology was established in 1978 to meet the demands of China’s core industries of petrochemical technology and energy production, as well as contribute to the continuing economic and social development of Beijing. Although engineering is a focus, disciplines such as economics, management, and humanities are subject to increasing student interest. BIPT adheres to the philosophy that excellent teaching will produce excellent graduates. To that end, the Institute sent 10 faculty members to the University of Minnesota for an intensive training program focused on educational philosophy and pedagogy between August 17 and September 6, 2014.
While in Minnesota, the training delegation members were instructed by faculty and staff whose passion for teaching was evident in their lectures. The U of M China Center was delighted to collaborate with the Center for Teaching and Learning in order to provide the BIPT delegation with instruction of the highest caliber. While in Minnesota, the delegation was able to experience what classes in the United States are like via instruction given in real university classroom settings, as well as freely interact with U of M faculty and staff to learn more about the key differences between the U.S. and Chinese higher education systems. The Mingda Training Program accompanied the delegation on visits to the University of Minnesota-Duluth and Minneapolis Community and Technical College to illustrate the various types of higher education institutions teaching students in the U.S. After leaving Minnesota, the delegation continued their journey on the west coast to compare the higher education system in Minnesota with the public and private systems in northern and southern California.
