Language learning experience 1

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Ariana Mata hosts a discussion on language learning experiences with a diverse group of students. They share their challenges and joys in learning languages like French, Spanish, and Chinese, highlighting the importance of understanding different cultures. The students discuss their study abroad experiences, emphasizing the practical use of language skills in various contexts. The conversation also touches on the benefits of learning Chinese, including cognitive development and a fresh perspective on the world.

Takeaways

• 😀 The conversation is about language learning experiences among students at Lancaster University.
• 🌐 Participants share their experiences studying languages such as French, Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese.
• 🎓 One student changed their major from Linguistics to French because of a passion for language learning.
• 🏫 Lancaster University's language program is praised for its supportive approach and contemporary curriculum.
• 📚 Students have opportunities to study abroad, which enhances their language skills and cultural understanding.
• 🌟 Studying languages is seen as a gateway to understanding history, art, and culture.
• 🏞️ A typical day for a language student involves preparation for seminars, attending classes, and participating in language-related events.
• 🌍 Studying abroad provides students with practical language use in real-world settings, different from academic contexts.
• 🗣️ Language skills have been beneficial in various situations, such as making connections with international students and conducting research.
• 📈 Learning Chinese is recommended for its unique script and potential cognitive benefits, as well as its growing global significance.

Q & A

What languages are the participants learning?

The participants are learning French, Spanish, and Chinese.

Why did Aaron choose to study Chinese?

Aaron chose to study Chinese because he was fascinated by the artistic side of Chinese characters and the way Chinese calligraphy combines language and art.

Why did Martha switch her major to French?

Martha switched her major to French because she realized she enjoyed learning languages more than Linguistics, and she had already studied French in primary school.

What challenges does Martha find in learning Chinese?

Martha finds Chinese more difficult than French because of the complexity of writing characters and the unfamiliar grammar structure.

What did Aaron originally come to Lancaster to study, and why did he change his course?

Aaron originally came to Lancaster to study Physics, but he switched to languages because he found them more interesting and diverse compared to Physics.

What is a typical day like for a university student studying languages at Lancaster?

A typical day involves preparing for seminars, attending language classes, doing presentations or other academic work, and participating in language-related events like conversation clubs or karaoke.

What was Martha's study abroad experience like?

Martha spent a year in Corsica as an English language assistant, teaching English to primary school students, which allowed her to explore the area and practice French.

How did Aaron's study abroad experience differ from Martha's?

Aaron split his year abroad between studying in Rennes, France, and volunteering in Mexico. This allowed him to experience both academic and work environments while improving his language skills in French and Spanish.

How have Aaron's language skills been useful in practical situations?

Aaron used his Chinese language skills to communicate with a new Chinese student in his dorm, which helped break the ice and made the student feel more comfortable.

Why does the Chinese lecturer suggest learning Chinese if only one language were to be taught in UK schools?

The lecturer suggests learning Chinese because it is a beautiful and unique language that offers a different perspective on the world. Additionally, learning Chinese characters can aid in cognitive development.