2013 Teaching Initiative Award Winner
Li Zeng, Ph.D.
- Ph.D. in Radio/Television/Film from Northwestern University (2008)
- Assistant Professor of Cinema Studies, School of Theatre and Dance
Teaching philosophy
I work to provide a rigorous learning environment that encourages students to think actively and critically and empowers students in pursuing learning.
My motivation to become a professor
Comes from my enthusiasm for teaching.
Most important teaching influence
Professor Scott Curtis. He is an excellent teacher. I never felt bored in his film classes when I was a graduate student at Northwestern. I want to be a great teacher like him.
Least favorite part of teaching
When students come to a seminar class without doing the reading at all. I want students to participate in discussion, but without doing the reading the discussion can hardly be engaging.
Most challenging aspect of teaching
To get students to do the reading before coming to class. Two strategies I use to facilitate this are to ask students to post their reflections on ReggieNet the day before the class and to assign reading response papers.
Most rewarding aspect of teaching
To see my students succeed. It is a great feeling of fulfillment to see you have passed your knowledge on to the students.
Best compliment from a student
A student who was not interested in the class at first had decided to choose cinema studies as his minor by the end of the semester.
