A student walks over Zhang Nengli, a college teacher at Wuhan University of Technology on May 11. (Photo/Wuhan Evening News)
(ECNS) - A college teacher has tried an unusual way to encourage his students to question authority by asking them to walk over his body while he lay down on the floor face-down.
Zhang Nengli, 51, is an associate professor at Wuhan University of Technology (WUT). On May 11, he took an unusual approach as he taught an elective class called "Philosophy and Problem Solving Strategies."
While on the ground, Zhang asked more than 150 students in the class to step over his body.
Surprised and confused, students initially did not dare follow Zhang's instructions. Eventually his encouragement overcame their hesitation and more than 100 students followed his request.
Zhang said he wanted to teach his students about the spirit of rebellion and to encourage them to question authority.
Students applauded Zhang's unorthodox teaching method, and also his outstanding character, independent thinking, and positive energy. By getting stepped on, Zhang earned respect and appreciation rather than humiliation, said Chen, a WUT student.
Fear is a traditional part of Chinese culture that inhibits freedom, said the teacher. Consequently, students seldom question teachers in class, and hopefully Chinese students will have the same courage to pursue truth, he added.
