CIEE Intensive Chinese Language and Culture Program in Taipei, Taiwan

  Taiwan

• Taipei: 
Taipei (Taibei)

Term: Academic Year, Fall, Spring 
Dates: Fall 17 weeks: late Aug-early Dec; Spring 17 weeks: after Lunar New Year-early June; Academic Year 44 weeks: late Aug-early June; Optional Winter Term 10 weeks: mid-December-Lunar New Year

Description: The goals of the Intensive Chinese Language and Culture program are to enhance students' Chinese language and research skills through experiential learning, lectures from scholars and professionals, and conducting oral interviews. These goals are accomplished through intensive language training use of traditional characters and specialized language electives coupled with critical inquiry on topics related to Taiwan and Chinese societies. The program is ideal for those who plan to utilize their language training and experiences in Taiwan as part of their long-term academic or career goals.

Academic Program
Established in 1993, the CIEE Study Center at National Chengchi University provides students with the unique opportunity for Mandarin Chinese language training using traditional characters and the latest teaching pedagogies. In addition, students take a Language Practicum organized by CIEE. The third component of the academic program is a core course in English, structured to teach students about modern Taiwan from both a social science and linguistic perspective.

Students with near-native proficiency in Mandarin should be aware that their language ability may exceed the most advanced courses offered.

Academic Culture
Students attend morning language classes Monday through Friday with other international students, many of whom are from other parts of Asia. The language classes are small, and students are encouraged to participate actively. Language electives meet twice a week for a total of twelve weeks. The core course takes place in three-hour time blocks one afternoon each week.

The University calendar consists of three terms: fall, winter, and spring. Academic year students attend both fall and spring terms, and may choose to attend the winter term at an additional cost. Although extracurricular activities and personal travel contribute vitally to the students' overall experience in Taiwan, attendance in class is paramount. Any extended travel should take place prior to the start or upon completion of the program.

Highlights:

• Ideal program for students interested in furthering their study of traditional Chinese characters; small Chinese language classes
  
• Cultural Ambassadors guide you through Taiwanese culture and the Chinese language, as do three Taiwanese roommates
  
• Special CIEE core seminar taught in English and Chinese examines modern Taiwanese culture and society from a multi-disciplinary perspective
  
• Directed independent study option; internship for academic yea students in their second semester

Special Lectures
Students are invited to meet with locals and expatriates including journalists, diplomats, educators, or business people to gain a broader perspective on living and working in Taiwan. Past speakers have included educators, NGO workers, a disc jockey, and, one semester, the President of Taiwan.

Immersion
Community Involvement
Students are encouraged to volunteer in the community. In the past, students have volunteered at the following organizations among others: the Tzu-Chi Foundation, Eden Social Welfare Foundation, Himalaya Foundation, Tsuei Ma Ma Foundation (for housing and community services), Vision Youth Action Association, and the Awakening Foundation.

Additionally, students may participate in sports or clubs on campus.

Cultural Ambassadors
Cultural Ambassadors are students from the University who become the CIEE students' friends, language partners, as well as sources of local perspectives. They are not only an integral and valuable part of the program but also an indispensable part of the students' Taiwan experience.

Target Language Meals
To encourage students to utilize their Chinese in an informal setting, CIEE plans bi-monthly group meals for students, their language teachers, Cultural Ambassadors, and resident staff in Taiwan. Students attending the optional meals are required to only speak Chinese with their teachers and peers.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: Please check the CIEE website for current program pricing.

Experience Required: yes