Abstract: To address the issues of “emphasizing skills over critical thinking” and “disconnection between theory and practice” in material experiment teaching, this study proposes an innovative PROS four-dimensional progressive teaching model. This model integrates four dimensions—Problem-driven, Root-tracing Inquiry, Open-designing, and Summary-extension—to construct a stepwise teaching framework. Taking the “Strain Gauge Pasting and Welding” project as an example, the teaching process involves: (1) introducing core problems through engineering case contextualization, (2) in-depth mechanistic analysis via animations and operational videos, (3) open-ended tasks to guide group discussions and AI-assisted solution optimization, and (4) multi-level post-experiment summarization and knowledge extension. The results show that 90% of the student groups proposed innovative strain gauge layout solutions under the PROS model, while 85% of students reported significant improvements in engineering thinking and innovative abilities. The PROS model provides a systematic and transferable solution for material experiment teaching reform, demonstrating substantial engineering applicability.