Interculturality in Learning Mandarin Chinese in British Universities

Interculturality in Learning Mandarin Chinese in British Universities examines the processes involved in people engaging and exchanging with each other across languages, nationalities, and ethnicities, using an ecological perspective and a variety of sources. It is of interest to students and academics studying and researching Chinese language education, language and intercultural communication, intercultural education, and language education in general.

Format: Hardback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

China's growing economic and political influence has brought interculturality to the forefront of attention, highlighting the importance of understanding and engaging with people from different cultures. In this book, interculturality explores the processes involved in people engaging and exchanging with each other across languages, nationalities, and ethnicities. The study adopts an ecological perspective, critically examining a range of issues and utilizing a variety of sources for a comprehensive investigation. Data gathered from interviews with Mandarin students is combined with a critical discussion of a wide range of sources, providing a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

This book is of interest to students and academics studying and researching Chinese language education, as well as academics working in the fields of language and intercultural communication, intercultural education, and language education in general. It offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with learning Mandarin Chinese in British universities and provides practical strategies for promoting intercultural understanding and communication.

One of the key challenges facing students of Mandarin Chinese in British universities is the language barrier. Mandarin is a complex language with a unique grammar system and a vast vocabulary, and it can be difficult for students to acquire fluency. This challenge is compounded by the fact that many Mandarin students are from non-Chinese backgrounds and may not have had exposure to Chinese culture and language before arriving in the UK.

To address this challenge, the book explores a range of strategies for promoting interculturality in Mandarin language learning. These include language exchange programs, cultural immersion programs, and language learning apps. Language exchange programs allow students to practice their Mandarin with native speakers, while cultural immersion programs provide students with the opportunity to experience Chinese culture firsthand. Language learning apps can provide students with interactive exercises and games to help them improve their language skills.

Another challenge facing students of Mandarin Chinese in British universities is the cultural differences between China and the UK. China has a rich and complex culture that is different from the UK in many ways, and it can be difficult for students to understand and appreciate these differences. This challenge is compounded by the fact that many Mandarin students are from non-Chinese backgrounds and may not have had exposure to Chinese culture before arriving in the UK.

To address this challenge, the book explores a range of strategies for promoting cultural understanding in Mandarin language learning. These include cultural awareness training, cultural exchange programs, and language learning apps. Cultural awareness training provides students with an understanding of Chinese culture and history, while cultural exchange programs provide students with the opportunity to experience Chinese culture firsthand. Language learning apps can provide students with interactive exercises and games to help them improve their cultural understanding.

In addition to these challenges, the book also explores the role of language learning in promoting interculturality. Language learning can help students develop empathy, understanding, and respect for other cultures, and it can also help students develop their language skills. Language learning can also provide students with opportunities to travel and work abroad, which can further enhance their intercultural understanding and communication skills.

However, the book also acknowledges that there are some challenges associated with learning Mandarin Chinese in British universities. One of these challenges is the lack of resources and support for Mandarin language learning. Many universities in the UK do not have dedicated Mandarin language departments, and this can make it difficult for students to access resources and support.

To address this challenge, the book suggests that universities should invest in Mandarin language departments and provide students with access to resources and support. This can include hiring native speakers to teach Mandarin, providing language learning resources and support, and organizing cultural events and activities.

In conclusion, Interculturality in Learning Mandarin Chinese in British Universities is a valuable book that explores the processes involved in people engaging and exchanging with each other across languages, nationalities, and ethnicities. The study adopts an ecological perspective, critically examining a range of issues and utilizing a variety of sources for a comprehensive investigation. Data gathered from interviews with Mandarin students is combined with a critical discussion of a wide range of sources, providing a comprehensive understanding of the topic. The book is of interest to students and academics studying and researching Chinese language education, as well as academics working in the fields of language and intercultural communication, intercultural education, and language education in general. It offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with learning Mandarin Chinese in British universities and provides practical strategies for promoting intercultural understanding and communication.

Weight: 434g
Dimension: 161 x 241 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138228306