Ali Amiri teaches a variety of courses, ranging from Engineering Mechanics to Product Design and Development to Fundamentals of Visual Communication for Engineers. He also coordinates the senior design projects for the department.
Ali Amiri is often described as “my favorite instructor” in student evaluations. Known for his passion for his subject and his dedication to students, Amiri recently was recognized with College of Engineering Early Career Excellence in Teaching Award.
He teaches a variety of courses, ranging from Engineering Mechanics to Product Design and Development to Fundamentals of Visual Communication for Engineers. He also coordinates the senior design projects for the department.
“Teaching and learning is a way that future is shaped. It is quite remarkable to be part of that,” Amiri said.
“I strive to build an environment of trust inside and outside of my classrooms – I engage with students and approach them wholeheartedly,” Amiri said. “I keep a close eye on my students’ progress and reach out periodically by email or after lectures if I notice some struggles. A strong relationship and communication are essential to students’ success; this is even more crucial during the HyFlex teaching model during the pandemic.”
Amiri’s teaching style is to present complex material in an easily understood and entertaining fashion. He calls himself “a guide on the side, rather than a sage on the stage.” His goal is to stimulate his students’ curiosity.
“Engineering is a fast-evolving area,” Amiri said. “By bringing new, intellectually stimulating topics and current problems facing society to the classroom, I spark enthusiasm inside my students and help them build on it from the outside to remain interested in the subject matter.”
Amiri is proud of the quality of the education offered by NDSU, as well as the unique campus experience students enjoy. “NDSU offers a large social circle, with a vast selection of programs with distinguished faculty. NDSU students have a strong sense of community, have close access to faculty and have many opportunities for hands-on learning.”
Amiri joined the NDSU faculty in 2017. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Shiraz University, Iran; master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of North Dakota; and his doctorate in mechanical engineering at NDSU.