Fenghui Yuan

Fenghui Yuan

Research Scientist

Department of Soil, Water and Climate
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

Teaching

University of Minnesota Undergraduate Scholars Program

Undergraduate course, University of Minnesota, AI Institute for Land, Economy, Agriculture, and Forestry (AI-LEAF), 2025

I designed courses that turned complex concepts into hands-on, collaborative learning experiences. In my process-based crop modeling module, students from diverse backgrounds, from soil science to computuer science, explored how models represent real-world biological and environmental processes in agricultural systems. Through interactive discussions and group modeling exercises, they moved from theory to practice, gaining the skills to tackle real-world agricultural and environmental challenges.

Teaching in Globally Diverse Classes Program

Training, University of Minnesota, 2025

The Teaching in Globally Diverse Classes certificate program strengthened my ability to implement inclusive teaching strategies by incorporating multiple instructional formats—lectures, interactive discussions, group projects, and hands-on exercises—to accommodate diverse learning styles. After completing the program, I developed assignments that fostered collaboration among students from different disciplinary backgrounds, enabling them to learn from each other’s expertise. In computational courses, I provided scaffolded exercises and accessible coding resources, supporting students with varying levels of prior programming experience and enhancing overall engagement and learning outcomes.

Inclusive STEM Teaching Program

Training, University of Minnesota, 2025

Through an 8-week Inclusive STEM Teaching certificate program at the University of Minnesota, I gained strategies for fostering equitable and inclusive learning environments. The program deepened my understanding of how students’ identities and backgrounds shape engagement in STEM classrooms, and strengthened my teaching by guiding me to create learning spaces that value diverse perspectives. Applying these insights, I designed classes that supported all students in actively engaging with ecosystem science and environmental research.

Mentoring