Abstract: A heuristic teaching method based on“mutual promotion of learning and research”was put forward. By integrating the theoretical knowledge and practical application in associated curriculum, setting up the mind mapping of corresponding analysis methods, and introducing the scientific research results, it can help students intuitively and in-depth understand how the relevant test methods solve the problems during scientific research. It can also guide students to cultivate divergent thinking, forming a three-dimensional system of knowledge of their own, and finally achieve the purpose of digest the learning and to apply. On the other hand, we improved the course assessment methods, shifting the focus from the traditional“test scores dominated”to the process assessment focused on students'subjective initiative. It can help to improve the students'independent thinking, teamwork and the ability to analyze and solve problems, and to cultivate the students'scientific thinking and scientific literacy.

Key words: Material testing, Heuristic teaching, “Mutual promotion of teaching and scientific research”, Teaching reform, Mind mapping, Polymer materials