Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/learn-intermediate-chinese-mandarin
Learning a new language can be an exhilarating journey, and what better way to embark on that adventure than through the lens of a beautiful country like Taiwan? I recently completed the intermediate Chinese course titled ‘是誰在說話 — 可愛的臺灣’ on Coursera, and I am excited to share my thoughts on this unique language learning experience.
The course is designed around four picturesque locations in Taiwan, offering not only language instruction but also cultural insight. Each week, you’re transported to a different site, enriching your vocabulary, grammar, and text comprehension while learning about Taiwan’s past and present.
### What Makes This Course Unique?
#### Engaging Protagonists
One of the standout features of this course is its use of non-human protagonists. Through creative storytelling, these characters recount their experiences and histories related to each location. This narrative element not only makes learning more enjoyable but also helps in memory retention.
#### Scenic Learning
The course takes you on a journey from the northern town of Jiufen, famed for its gold mining history and scenic lantern-lit streets, to the cultural tapestry of Lugang in central Taiwan with its historical temples and stone tablets. You then journey down to Tainan, where the remnants of early Chinese settlement tell a tale of nostalgia mixed with modernity. Finally, you explore the natural beauty of Orchid Island, a place where the lifestyle starkly contrasts with urban Taiwan, offering a rich cultural experience.
#### A Perfect Blend of Language and Culture
The curriculum seamlessly weaves together language lessons with cultural narratives, allowing students to not just learn Chinese but to appreciate the stories behind the places. This context makes vocabulary and grammar lessons much more relevant and engaging.
### Syllabus Breakdown
– **Week 1**: Jiufen’s Lanterns – Explore the history of a once-booming gold mining town.
– **Week 2**: The Secret of Shi Gan Dang – Discover the cultural significance of temples in Lugang.
– **Week 3**: Romance Under the Setting Sun – Dive into the historic architecture of Tainan.
– **Week 4**: The Promise of the Flying Fish King – Appreciate the natural landscapes and lifestyle of Orchid Island.
### Overall Experience
Throughout the course, I found the lessons to be rich in content and engaging. The dialogues were entertaining, and the participation in storytelling made my learning journey feel interactive. I highly recommend this course to anyone looking to improve their Chinese language skills while exploring the culture and history that shapes Taiwan.
Whether you’re a language enthusiast or someone simply curious about Taiwan, ‘是誰在說話 — 可愛的臺灣’ offers an unforgettable educational experience that combines different facets of learning in a fun and meaningful way. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to elevate your Mandarin skills while discovering the lovely landscapes and stories of Taiwan!
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/learn-intermediate-chinese-mandarin