Learning English in China

Learning English in China

I received this response when I told someone I planned to go to China to study English language and literature: “What?! That’s like trying to learn how to fry Hokkein Mee in India!” Talk about a vivid depiction of irony.

Maybe this person I talked to simply has minimal knowledge of the standard of universities these days, especially in a renowned one such as Fudan University, Shanghai; or perhaps this ignorant person still thinks women in China bind their feet. In such modern times, many of the students here are more or less effectively bilingual, with 6 out of 10 on their way to getting a certificate in English-Chinese translation and interpretation, which deepens their understanding of both cultures.

“But I heard that they learn English by memorising words and essays, right? That’s so rigid.” This may be a common criticism made by Singaporeans, presumptuous that we are in a more advanced level when it comes to education, especially in terms of language. And so I suppose we are learning the Chinese language in a non-rote learning method, with lots of brilliant ideas of teaching the language in enticing ways. Since the Chinese language does not appeal to students, let them learn less. An absolutely ingenious plan.

On the contrary, the Chinese approach to English learning pays more attention to communication. Perhaps due to the effects of the Cultural Revolution or their esteem for the West, the Chinese are blatantly enthusiastic in speaking with a foreigner in English and jump at any opportunity to do so. I had a classmate who was willing to accompany me back to my dormitory after classes for a 10-minute English conversation, and then take a 20-minute journey back to his own dormitory. China’s entry to the World Trade Organization and having Beijing elected as the Host City for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad in 2008 has definitely created an even stronger will power for the Chinese to strive to hone their English ability. Moreover, any down-to-earth Chinese person knows that mastering English will pave a smoother path for him/her to work for foreign-invested companies and thus be better paid.

Learning English has practically become a national obsession. English curricula are increasingly required for students as young as preschoolers, English-version textbooks are used in universities, and it is compulsory for college students to achieve a certain proficiency in the language before they can graduate. There are television programmes in China that teach you English, and many schools that offer to improve your English for youngsters and adults alike.

Whilst there is a flood of foreigners in China wanting to acquire the Chinese language and culture, Singaporeans seem reluctant to be caught in it. So don’t deride learning how to fry Hokkein Mee in India when you don’t even bother learning how to fry Char Kway Teow in Singapore.