To further enhance the Chinese language proficiency of foreign teachers and help them better integrate into campus life and carry out their teaching duties, the Chinese Corner activities for foreign teachers officially commenced this week. Foreign teachers from various countries gathered in the classroom to officially commence their Chinese language learning journey, experiencing the charm of the Chinese language in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere whilst building bridges of communication between China and the rest of the world.

At the opening ceremony, a warm welcome was extended to all foreign teachers, and a detailed introduction was given to the curriculum, teaching arrangements and learning objectives of this Chinese Corner programme. The course combines practicality with enjoyment, focusing on core topics such as daily conversation, campus life and the exploration of traditional culture. It is primarily taught by outstanding student representatives specializing in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language. Through diverse methods including role-play, interactive exercises and cultural sharing, the course helps foreign teachers master basic Chinese pronunciation, common vocabulary and daily expressions in a step-by-step, progressive manner, thereby effectively enhancing their listening and speaking skills.

During the classes, Chinese teachers patiently and meticulously explained pronunciation techniques and the meanings of words, whilst the foreign teachers listened attentively, engaged actively, took the initiative to practise repeating phrases, and enthusiastically participated in classroom Q&A sessions. Starting with the basics of Pinyin, they gradually familiarize themselves with Chinese expressions through imitation, communication and practice, creating a vibrant learning atmosphere with lively interaction. Many foreign teachers expressed their keen anticipation of improving their Chinese proficiency through systematic study, enabling them to communicate more effectively with staff and students and gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.

To diversify the teaching methods and deepen the foreign teachers’ awareness and understanding of traditional Chinese culture, this week’s programme also included a calligraphy workshop, integrating traditional culture into the Chinese language classes. The atmosphere was relaxed yet lively, with the teachers frequently asking questions and exchanging ideas. The Chinese teachers corrected their postures and guided their brushwork one by one, leading everyone step-by-step to experience the joy of traditional writing. Foreign teachers unanimously remarked that this calligraphy workshop was both enjoyable and meaningful. It not only improved their Chinese writing skills but also allowed them to experience first-hand the profound heritage of Chinese outstanding traditional culture. One teacher remarked, ‘Calligraphy has made me love Chinese even more; every Chinese character is like a small painting, beautiful and powerful.’

The launch of this Chinese language training programme for foreign teachers represents a significant initiative by the university to optimize services for foreign staff and promote cultural exchange between China and other nations. It not only provides a practical platform for language learning but also helps deepen their understanding of and affinity for Chinese language and culture. Moving forward, the Chinese Corner will continue to introduce more distinctive cultural experience courses to enrich the learning and living experiences of foreign teachers in China, thereby fostering mutual learning, exchange, and the harmonious coexistence of Chinese and foreign cultures.

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