Abstract: Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), as a crucial thermal analysis instrument, is seldom addressed in instrumental analysis experiment textbooks. To address this gap, this study presents a teaching design featuring two experimental components: the dehydration of copper sulfate pentahydrate during heating and the phase transitions of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). By integrating online and offline instruction with inquiry-based and tiered teaching models, this approach has been implemented in graduate student instrument training and open instrument workshops. The results demonstrate significant pedagogical benefits, including enhanced student engagement, improved instrumental operation skills, and the cultivation of research literacy, while also optimizing the utilization efficiency of DSC instruments. It is hoped that these findings will serve as a valuable reference for peer institutions in designing experiments and training programs for large and medium-sized instruments.

Key words: Differential scanning calorimetry, Copper sulfate pentahydrate, Poly(ethylene-terephthalate), Combination of online and offline, Inquiry-based learning