Four Video Conferencing Exchange Sessions with Azuchi Junior High School, Japan

We concluded this semester's International Cultural Exchange (ICE) program on a high note with a series of four video conferencing sessions and a fun-filled milkshake party.

 

During these sessions, my students engaged in lively discussions with their Japanese counterparts, touching upon various topics such as school life, the beauty of Taichung, and more. They demonstrated their curiosity by asking intriguing follow-up questions like, "Could you demonstrate some Kendo moves?", "What are Dango made of?", and "Why do girls wear skirts?". Additionally, they showcased their traditional musical instrument skills and even pulled off an impressive dance move.

 

Fumiya and Alex's students, on the other hand, introduced Japanese castles, sweets, martial arts, anime, and other fascinating aspects of their culture. They collaborated in small groups of 3 or 4 to present their findings in simple English, with guidance from their teachers. What impressed me the most was one group's creative approach of incorporating questions with multiple-choice options and accompanying visuals into their presentation.

 

As it happened to be the final ICE class of the semester, we had successfully achieved all our desired learning outcomes. To celebrate, we organized a delightful milkshake party. The students enthusiastically prepared a variety of ingredients, including ice cream, milk, fruits, and cookies, to blend together and create delicious milkshakes. To add to the festivities, I treated them to fried chicken, chicken nuggets, and French fries from McDonald's.

 

Throughout the program, Director Hong has been a tremendous source of support, often appearing to deliver motivational speeches to the students. On this occasion, she even invited two students to reflect on their learning experience and speak in front of the camera.

 

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to pursue my passion—inspiring students to speak English and facilitating cultural exchanges with individuals beyond Taiwan's borders. Having secured the Accreditation and Reaccreditation of the International School Award by the British Council and establishing a sister school partnership with Kyungpook National University's Middle School, KMJH's international education initiative is now complete with the coming of a foreign English teacher.