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HindiQ & A: Learning English in China
Q & A: Learning English in China
With this in the background, today we wanted to chat with one of our Chinese students, Wei and learn more about the process of learning English living in China . Wei has been a member of Spoken English Practice since January and is an electrical engineering student by day.
Question – What do you see as the biggest challenge for improving English speaking skills of Chinese students?
Answer – I would say the biggest challenge is the lack of opportunities for us to practice with native English speakers. Most of us understand grammar fundamentals well. We have a lot of resources to learn new English words. But without the opportunity to speak in English often, we don’t have a way to put that in to practice.
Question – What about Spoken English programs in China? Are they useful?
Answer – They are useful to a certain extent. A lot of English programs in China focus on reading and writing. In China Speaking English is not given enough prominence. This is the biggest challenge. I have taken English speaking classes in Shanghai and I have found their level to be more suitable for beginners. I want to learn English so that I can speak with people from native countries without making mistakes.
Question – How has Spoken English Practice helped you? How do you compare our method to the English speaking classes in Shanghai?
Answer – The biggest thing I like about Spoken English Practice is that I speak 90% of the time during lessons. The native conversation partner speaks only 10% of the time. He will keep the conversation moving but will make sure I speak. If you are in an English speaking class in China, the teacher will be speaking most of the time and that is not helpful.
Also, I like that the focus is on improving English speaking fluency and not grammar. I have found this approach much more effective and makes student confident to speak in English.
Question – What have you talked about during sessions?
Answer – Almost everything. From differences between American culture and Chinese culture to going to graduate school from cooking to gardening. I feel like I can talk about a wide variety of topics in English now.
Question – What is next for you?
Answer – I’m studying for my GRE to come to graduate school in the US. Researching on schools now.
Thanks Wei for your time and we wish you all the best for grad school!
Categories: English speaking classes in Shanghai, English speaking classes in Beijing
November 11, 2014 