Guest Profile
Guo Qingchun, a researcher and faculty member at the Experimental College of the Open University of China (OUC), joined the university in 1984. In 2022, she was honoured as a Distinguished Teacher in Beijing for her role as the leader of the national-level ideological and political education demonstration course, "Principles of Aesthetics." She has authored or co-authored over 20 textbooks and monographs, and has taught more than 10 courses. Notably, her textbook "Introduction to Art" has gone through 17 editions, and three of her courses have been recognised as OUC's High-Quality Courses. As the head of the Advertising Programme development team, her programme was awarded the title of "Featured Programme for Continuing Education by Beijing Higher Education Institutions." Additionally, she has published over 30 research papers, led 11 research projects at the provincial and ministerial levels, and has received numerous awards, including the First Prize for Teaching Achievements in Beijing.
Q: Could you please introduce your teaching career?
A: I joined our institution in 1984, shortly after graduating from the Chinese Department at Nankai University. At that time, it was still known as the China Central Radio and TV University (CCRTVU).
Initially, I taught Chinese language courses as an assistant lecturer. We conducted many face-to-face classes, and my first lecture was attended by around 700 to 800 students. In 1986, I helped establish the Journalism programme, for which I received specialised training at the People's Daily and the Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. In 1998, I initiated the university's Advertising programme.
I was promoted to associate professor in 1999. After 19 years of teaching, I transitioned to administrative roles, serving in the Academic Affairs Department for nearly a decade and later as the dean of the Experimental College until my retirement. After transitioning to a teaching management role, I never completely stepped away from frontline teaching. I continued to teach courses, such as serving as the course leaders for "Orientation in Open Education" and "Aesthetic Principles," which I taught up until my retirement.
Looking back on my 40-year teaching journey, I have no regrets and feel a deep sense of pride. I have been part of cultivating 20 million graduates and have witnessed the university’s transformation from its arduous early days to its current state. Through this journey, I have transformed from a fresh 20-year-old into a competent teacher for the people. I am profoundly grateful to the OUC for being the foundation of my 40-year career.
Q: Why did you choose to return to the OUC and study fine arts?
A: During the latter part of my career, I spent more time on administrative duties, which left little opportunity for further study. Now that I am retired, I am eager to embrace lifelong learning.
The teachers at the SUC are exceptional; for example, Professor Tang Yingshan's oil painting class, which embodies his belief that "everyone is an artist," aligns perfectly with the university's mission of serving lifelong learning for all.
The OUC has now been designated as the Seniors University of China, adding a new dimension to its existing responsibilities. I believe it will make significant contributions to lifelong and universal learning in our society.
Q: What best wishes would you like to send to our university?
A: I sincerely wish our university continued success and the ability to forge new achievements in this new era. As we strive to build an education powerhouse, I hope our institution will make even greater contributions to the nation's educational mission.