Everyone, at somepoint or another, is thrilled to discover either a talent for doing somethingor a fascination in how something is done. It took an observant teacher to makeme aware of a latent speaking and writing talent awaiting to be developed andnatured. She was the catalyst in setting me on a path for my love anddedication towards an educational and communication journey that culminated inan extraordinary teaching and coachingexperience at Dalian Neusoft University of Information (DNUI). I am honoured to be associated with DNUI.

With the declaredOutcomes Based Education Philosophy at DNUI I leaped to the opportunity incoaching students experiential learning activities in facilitating them to use their own vivid experience tobridge from what they already know to the new material I had to offer them, interms of both content and skills. Thus insuring that my teaching is not to beseen only to “instruct” the pre-scribed syllabi, but to be part of expediting aproductive, well balanced citizen to take her/his place and role in the greatersociety.

In ensuringverifiable outcomes I am of the opinion that being an excellent teacher meansmore than designing and delivering an effective lecture or being able to fosterthought-provoking classroom discussions, it extends beyond the classroom; I take a sincere interest in students inmaking an effort to get to know them on a personal level.

In developingmeaningful relationships with students, I have noticed a positive effect ontheir work ethic and increase confidence in their ability to learn and to apply. I found informal interactions conducive tothe learning experience such as inviting students to an informal mealpreparation activity; inviting students that excelled an opportunity to havelunch with me at the teachers canteen;to have impromptu conversations on and off campus and execute excursionsin and around Dalian.

Teaching at DNUIsince 2016 enriched my life… changed my life. It is a privilege to both supportand bear witness to my students’ dedication, drive, and empathy — not tomention their sense of humour. They are talented, resilient, and every othersuperlative in the book.

Only recently,while preparing students for the annual Public Speaking Contest at a seriousmoment, (in engaging with your audience) one student’s electric toothbrush wenton a loud singing mode indicating perhaps it’s time for tooth brushing. Itlifted the spirit immediately especially to underscore audience participation.

I am forever grateful for the opportunity tobe called Teacher…Daniel…by the English Department, my Chinese Colleagues …myforeign colleagues, from the UK, Canada, Japan and Russia. I have never in allmy teaching and training endeavours met such diligence and urgency towardsaccomplishment in Pursuit of Excellence!

I affectionatelyrefer to my tenure here as becoming an adopted “Chinese-foreigner”