Teaching
Teaching Philosophy
I believe in making history relevant and accessible by connecting past events to contemporary issues. My teaching approach emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and the practical application of historical knowledge to understand current international relations and policy challenges.
Current Teaching
HI1022:
Europe in the Twentieth Century
University of Aberdeen
Academic Year 2025-2026
Teaching Assistant
This course provides a comprehensive examination of European history throughout the twentieth century,
exploring major political, social, and cultural transformations. Students engage with critical historiographical
debates and develop analytical skills for understanding complex historical narratives.
Responsibilities:
- Leading weekly tutorial sessions for undergraduate students
- Facilitating discussions on primary and secondary source analysis
- Providing feedback on essays and research assignments
- Supporting students in developing critical thinking and writing skills
- Holding office hours for individual student consultations
Previous Teaching Experience
From Washington to Peking: History of the Early Interactions Between the United States and China
Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg - Heidelberg Center for American Studies (HCA)
Summer Term 2023
Seminar Instructor
Schedule: Monday, 18:00 - 20:00
Venue: Oculus, Heidelberg Center for American Studies (Hauptstraße 120)
A comprehensive examination of the formative period of Sino-American relations, exploring key figures, pivotal events, and foundational interactions that shaped the complex relationship between the United States and China from the 18th century through the early 20th century.
Venue: Oculus, Heidelberg Center for American Studies (Hauptstraße 120)
A comprehensive examination of the formative period of Sino-American relations, exploring key figures, pivotal events, and foundational interactions that shaped the complex relationship between the United States and China from the 18th century through the early 20th century.
Course Sessions & Topics:
- Session 1 (Apr. 17): Empress of China: The Beginning of Sino-US Relations and Trade
- Session 2 (Apr. 24): Anson Burlingame I - Burlingame-Seward Treaty of 1868
- Session 3 (May 1): Anson Burlingame II - Open Door Policy
- Session 4 (May 8): William Alexander Parsons Martin - International Law and the Diplomatic System
- Session 5 (May 15): John Leighton Stuart - Modern Higher Education in China
- Session 6 (May 22): Chinese Sojourn Labor and the American Transcontinental Railroad
- Session 7 (May 29): Chinese Students in America: Hopes for Renewing the Nation
- Session 8 (June 5): Days of Shame: Yellow Peril and the Chinese Exclusion Act
- Session 9 (June 12): Conclusion: America's Role in China's Entry into the International Order / Feedback
Teaching Skills & Expertise
Seminar Leadership
Facilitating engaging discussions and debates
Academic Writing
Guiding essay development and critical analysis
Student Mentorship
One-on-one academic support and guidance
Teaching Interests
I am particularly interested in teaching courses related to:
- Modern International History: 19th-21st century global politics and diplomacy
- European Integration: History and politics of the European Union
- Great Power Relations: Strategic dynamics between major states
- Applied History: Using historical analysis for policy-making
- Research Methods: Training students in historical and social science research
Interested in guest lectures or teaching collaboration?
xudong.zhu01@gmail.com