CLL hosts new workshop for future global citizens
In today's globalised world, proficiency in languages like Chinese and Japanese can open numerous doors to unimaginable opportunities. These languages are not only gateways to rich cultural traditions, but also valuable assets in the international job market. As the influence of China and Japan continues to grow globally, individuals who can communicate in these languages will have a significant advantage in fields such as business, technology, diplomacy, and more.
Happy graduates of the Introduction to Asian Culture workshop with their certificates. PHOTO: COURTESY THE CENTRE FOR LANGUAGE LEARNING
The Centre for Language Learning (CLL) recently launched “Introduction to Asian Culture I" a workshop designed for young learners to give students the opportunity to learn foreign languages that are not widely studied in T&T.
“Every day felt like a new journey into the world of Chinese culture and language,” says Josiah, age 17, one of the first cohort of 10 students. “What stood out to me was the emphasis on practical vocabulary that may be used in everyday life.”
This programme included 10 students between the ages of 12 and 17 and consisted of basic language skills in both Chinese and Japanese, focusing on conversational phrases and common expressions; cultural insights, including traditional festivals and daily life in China and Japan; and hands-on activities, such as paper cutting, calligraphy, origami, and cooking demonstrations. Students also enjoyed the exposure to Chinese cultural topics that carry hundreds of years of history.
Talya, age 12, says of her experience with the Japanese portion of the programme that, “Learning about Tanabata [a Japanese festival] in class was a truly eye-opening experience for me. I really enjoyed learning the history of the festival and sharing my thoughts on it with friends and family.”
She adds, “Writing my own wishes and decorating a bamboo branch deepened my curiosity about Japanese culture, inspiring me to keep learning more.”
“Introduction to Asian Culture I" was developed and led by the CLL tutors Mrs Shiho Arakawa and Ms Janine Lutchman. Mrs Arakawa, a native Japanese speaker with several years of experience teaching Japanese language and culture. Ms Lutchman is an L2 Mandarin Chinese speaker, current Mandarin Chinese tutor at the CLL.
For more information on available workshops, visit the CLL website https://sta.uwi.edu/fhe/cll/workshops/ or send an email to CLL.FHE@sta.uwi.edu.
