Teaching
I have over 18 years of teaching experience across multiple universities and institutions, covering a wide range of topics from computational linguistics to language pedagogy. I am passionate about integrating cutting-edge research with practical education.
🎓 Current Teaching (2025-present)
Tongji University - School of Foreign Languages
Position: Tenured Professor
Courses and teaching responsibilities to be updated as they are assigned...
📚 Previous Teaching Experience
University of Tübingen, Germany (2017-2025)
Position: Assistant Professor & Research Scientist
Department: Computational Linguistics
Courses Taught:
- Transformer-based Language Models (2023 Winter Semester)
Advanced course covering the latest developments in large language models, attention mechanisms, and neural architectures - Quantitative Methods in Experimental Linguistics (2022 Summer Semester)
Statistical methods, experimental design, and data analysis techniques for linguistic research - Language Changes & Variations (2021 Summer Semester)
Historical linguistics, sociolinguistics, and computational approaches to language change - Computational Models in Linguistic Research (2020 & 2021 Summer Semesters)
Introduction to computational approaches in linguistics, including machine learning and statistical modeling - Text Linguistics and Discourse Processes (2019/2020 Winter Semester)
Advanced course on discourse analysis, text processing, and computational discourse modeling
Teaching Philosophy: Integrating cutting-edge research with practical applications, emphasizing hands-on experience with computational tools and statistical methods.
Zhejiang International Studies University (2013-2016)
Position: Associate Professor
Department: English Department
Courses Taught:
- Contrastive Analysis of Chinese and English (2013, 2014, 2015 Winter Semesters)
Comparative linguistics focusing on structural and functional differences between Chinese and English - Computer-aided Translation (2015, 2016 Spring Semesters)
Introduction to translation technology, CAT tools, and computational approaches to translation - English Reading & Writing (2014, 2015, 2016 Spring/Winter Semesters)
Advanced English language skills with focus on academic writing and critical reading - Corpus Linguistics (2016 Spring Semester)
Introduction to corpus methods, statistical analysis of linguistic data, and corpus tools - Language and Society (2015, 2016 Winter Semesters)
Sociolinguistics, language variation, and the social aspects of language use
Taizhou University (2007-2013)
Position: Lecturer
Department: English Department
Courses Taught:
- Introduction to Linguistics (2008, 2009 Spring Semesters)
Foundational course covering phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics - English Reading & Writing (2007, 2008, 2009 Spring/Winter Semesters)
Core English language skills development for undergraduate students - L2 Learning Strategies (2007, 2008 Winter Semesters)
Second language acquisition theories and practical learning strategies
👨🎓 Student Supervision
Graduate Student Supervision
- 50+ Bachelor and Master students supervised since 2010
- 2 PhD students co-supervised - 2019-2024
- Research areas: Computational linguistics, discourse analysis, corpus linguistics, translation studies
Recent Thesis Topics Supervised:
- Computational approaches to Chinese discourse structure
- Machine learning methods in translation quality assessment
- Cross-linguistic analysis of discourse markers
- Corpus-based studies of language variation
- Statistical modeling of psycholinguistic phenomena
🏆 Teaching Recognition & Service
Awards & Recognition
- "The Outstanding Teacher" - Zhejiang International Studies University (2014)
- Second Prize of "Teaching Achievement" - Zhejiang International Studies University (2016)
- "Advanced Research Worker" Award - Zhejiang International Studies University (2015-2017)
Academic Service & Organization
- Conference Organizer: International Morphological Processing Conference, Tübingen (November 2019)
- Academic Forum Organizer: Zhejiang International Studies University (2013-2016)
- Temporary Coordinator: Collaborative Innovation Center, Zhejiang University (2016-2017)
📖 Teaching Philosophy & Approach
Core Principles
- Research-Informed Teaching: Integrating latest research findings into classroom instruction
- Hands-on Learning: Emphasis on practical skills with computational tools and statistical software
- Critical Thinking: Encouraging students to question assumptions and develop analytical skills
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Combining linguistics, computer science, and cognitive science perspectives
- International Perspective: Drawing from experience across multiple educational systems and cultures
Innovative Teaching Methods
- Computational Workshops: Hands-on sessions with Python, R, and specialized linguistics software
- Real Data Analysis: Using authentic linguistic corpora and datasets in coursework
- Collaborative Projects: Team-based research projects that mirror professional research environments
- Technology Integration: Utilizing cutting-edge tools like transformer models and statistical packages
- Multilingual Perspectives: Incorporating cross-linguistic examples and comparative approaches
🎯 Future Teaching Goals
As I begin my new position at Tongji University, I look forward to:
- Developing new courses on Large Language Models and AI Ethics
- Creating interdisciplinary programs bridging linguistics and artificial intelligence
- Establishing international collaboration programs with European and North American universities
- Mentoring the next generation of computational linguists and AI researchers
- Promoting open science practices in linguistic education
"Teaching is not just about transmitting knowledge, but about inspiring curiosity and developing critical thinking skills that will serve students throughout their careers. My goal is to prepare students for the rapidly evolving landscape of computational linguistics and AI."
- Kun Sun