Customized Chinese language learning at Confucius Institute

MANILA, Philippines - Those who already possess some knowledge of the Chinese language seek special classes where they can learn based on their needs, interests and time. This is a preference that Confucius Institute at the Ateneo de Manila University addresses through its customized one-on-one classes. In the one-on-one scheme, students get to learn Chinese designed to suit their own needs and interests and at their own pace. It’s like a pick-and-choose class where students learn what they deem essential for their purposes, be it for conversation practice or business. Most enrollees know a little of the Chinese language already, so they know what they want to learn. A boy’s grandmother regularly visits Confucius Institute, too, not just to fetch her grandson, but also to learn the Chinese language there. She has attended regular Chinese language classes for three straight years. At home, grandson and grandmother continue the Chinese lessons by speaking to each other in Chinese. In a way, their language lessons connect them together. Grandmother gets to spend time with her grandson, tutoring him. And sometimes, it’s the grandson who teaches his grandmother. “They learn Chinese for whatever reason they want. It’s customized. We cater to their needs. With the pace, if you’re fast, then you can go really fast,” says Dr. Ellen Palanca, director of Ateneo de Manila University’s Confucius Institute. A group of company men also availed of the one-on-one class as preparation for the Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK), the Chinese language test equivalent of TOEFL. Their class was customized to meet their context, goal and motivation. Proof that CI’s one-on-one classes are increasing in popularity and continually building its reputation is that even the diplomatic community is taking part in Chinese language learning. Interested in learning the Chinese language through Confucius Institute’s one-on-one classes? Learn more about Confucius Institute by visiting http://www.ateneoconfucius.com or by calling 632-8125617. You may also visit their new office at the 6th Floor, Ateneo Professional Schools, 130 H.V. dela Costa Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City.