Teaching Affairs

During January 9th to 11th, 2024, the Practice Week for the first semester of the 2023-2024 academic year at the Japanese Department proceeded smoothly. The colorful and diverse activities not only provided students with abundant knowledge resources and practical experiences but also ignited everyone's enthusiasm for learning and broadened their international perspectives.

The Inheritance and Innovation Lecture

On the morning of January 9th, Associate Professor Xie Zhibin from the Institute of Middle Eastern Studies at Northwest University was invited to the Second Classroom of the School of Foreign Languages at Northwest University to deliver a fascinating lecture titled “Translation, Acceptance and Dissemination of Ancient Chinese Buddhist Scriptures”, which led the audience through a journey where humanity and culture fuse. Professor Xie elaborated on the historical stages and characteristics of Buddhist scripture translation, translation principles and theories, its influence on Chinese culture, and insights it offered for contemporary translation. After the lecture, students expressed that they gained new understanding of the crucial role translation plays in the dissemination of Buddhism. Language is the tool to understand the world and translation is the first step towards civilization. From this lecture, students gained a deeper and more concrete understanding about the role of translation.

To better prepare students for their future careers, the School of Foreign Languages invited Mr. Wang Xiaochen, General Manager of Tibo Crop Science Co., Ltd., to deliver a special lecture. Focusing on career planning and corporate needs, the lecture aims to help students better understand the challenges and opportunities in today's workplace. Drawing from his rich professional experience, Mr. Wang analyzed the challenges facing foreign language majors in employment. He shared personal entrepreneurial experiences and provided practical suggestions for foreign language students. Mr. Wang emphasized the importance of cross-cultural communication and leadership power in today's workplace, and encouraged students to continuously improve their abilities in a diverse environment. His inspiring words injected new motivation and indicated the direction forward for Japanese majors, which were warmly accepted by students.

Listen to the Melodies: Chinese Classic Songs Sung in Japanese Singing Contest

Another activity during the Practice Week “Listen to the Melodies” Chinese Classic Songs Soung in Japanese Singing Contest was held on the afternoon of January 9th. Students came prepared, replacing everyday reading with singing, exuding confidence and enthusiasm on stage. They incorporated their professional expertise into their performances, which not only boosted their courage but also facilitated their personal growth.

The relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere fostered active interaction both on and off the stage. Through singing familiar Chinese songs in Japanese, students not only experienced the rhythm of the Japanese language but also appreciated the synergy between Japanese and music. This experience sparked their interest in learning and laid the groundwork for active participation in cross-cultural communication in the future.

Book Circulation Reading Club

Guided by the principle of “Understanding books enlightens the spirit; Respecting teachers, like Yang Shi in the snow, spreads governance principles widely”, the “Book Circulation Reading Club” activity was organized on the morning of January 10th to further foster an atmosphere conducive to “loving reading”, “reading good books”, and “reading with good methods”. At the same time, it will enhance students' comprehensive ability and humanistic literacy.

Students shared their favorite books and films and expressed their thoughts on those books. The exchange illuminated minds and resonated with souls. Students witnessed the intellectual charm of others through sharing, showcased their own learning style through communication, and accumulated learning experience through Q&A sessions. This practice activity left a profound impression on students.

Lecture on Studying Abroad in Japan

On the afternoon of January 10th, a special lecture on studying in Japan was held. Mr. Li Xiaoyang, Director of the Japan Department of the Overseas Study Service Center at Northwest University, delivered a lecture titled “A gentleman is no vessel/utensil” (refers to “君子不器” in Chinese) to provide students with a wide range of employment platforms and opportunities to study abroad, so as to expand their learning horizons and employment channels.

Drawing inspiration from the story of Duanmu Ci (Zigong, an ancient Chinese philosopher), Mr. Li delved into the concept of “Qi”, imparting ten life suggestions such as continuously improving one's own value, paying attention to human nature, shaping one's worldview, and considering problems from the perspective of teachers and school. He then provided detailed information on the basic application process for studying in Japan, the education methods of Japanese universities for graduate students, admission requirements, and scholarship systems. And he also analyzed five common misconceptions on study abroad. This lecture made students greatly enlightened.

Japanese Prose Recitation Contest

Lastly, on the morning of January 11th, an important professional practice activity in Japanese language, the “Japanese Prose Recitation Contest”, was held. Students presented splendid recitations, demonstrating their preparation, fluency, and emotional expression.

After explaining the key points and evaluation criteria for recitation, teachers together with students appreciated a recitation of the classic prose “The Restaurant of Many Orders”(「注文の多い料理店」). Each participant delivered a well-prepared recitation with PowerPoint presentations and background music, which showcased their talents and left a memorable impression on the audience. During the feedback session, judges affirmed the active participation and performances of each student while also providing constructive criticism regarding pronunciation and volume. They also encouraged students to continue their enthusiasm for Japanese language learning and to boldly showcase themselves in future learning and work.

The three-day Japanese Language Week for the first semester of the 2023-2024 academic year has successfully concluded. In the new year, may we all let go of the past, welcome new light, overcome difficulties, and rise to the challenges. Looking forward to the new journey, the dawn leaps on the horizon!