Chinese International Students and cross-cultural learning at TLA
Have you ever wondered why it is important to know about other cultures? Starting to study in another country is always a challenge. However, a lot of people said it is an amazing experience!
Cross-cultural learning definitely increases students’ understanding about other cultures and students learn with cross-cultural communication skills how to communicate sensitively and with confidence about the norms, values and behavior that exist in each culture.
For TLA it is really interesting and important to create spaces where the students exchange ideas and learn about the typical foods, traditions, music, sports, and other topics not only in the classroom but also with outdoor activities.
Student testimony from China
Oliver is one student from China who has been living on The Gold Coast and studying at The Language Academy for one year. For Oliver, having multicultural students is important “because you can learn about different cultures and traditions, here people can help me to understand not only language but cultural behaviours through language”.
Other benefits of cross-cultural learning when Chinese students come here is the possibility to find some work and spend time with Australians. In fact, for this reason it is necessary to understand and learn aspects of this culture. It’s a great opportunity!
“I have friends from Colombia, France, Spain and other countries. The people here are very friendly and the teachers always try to be very funny in the class while the students learn about other cultures”, said Oliver.
Advice by Oliver for Chinese Students:
Oliver thinks that “the most important thing is speak, don’t be shy, speak as much as you can. You don’t need to think about your grammar mistakes because if you do, you will feel less confident. Just keep speaking and you will learn quickly. Everyone is here to support you”.
About the Gold Coast and its quality of life from Oliver, “it’s very relaxing and really chill, here you just need to enjoy life and it is also safe, you find really friendly people here”.