Tainan Fulbright Program Kicks Off with 16 American Scholars on Campus

Tainan City has officially launched its Fulbright Program for the 115th academic year, welcoming 16 American scholars who will be based on school campuses across the city. This initiative, a collaboration between the Tainan City Education Bureau and the Foundation for Scholarly Exchange (Fulbright Taiwan), marks a significant step in enhancing English language education and fostering cross-cultural understanding.

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Since joining the Fulbright Program in the 113th academic year, American scholars have increased from 10 in the first year, to 12 in the 114th academic year, and to 16 this year. After scholars enter the campus, through joint lesson preparation, collaborative teaching, and campus activities, they not only become teaching partners in English classrooms but also bring different cultural experiences into students' learning situations.

The program aims to integrate international exchange directly into elementary and junior high school campuses. Through daily interactions, Taiwanese students will not only improve their English skills but also share their life experiences with the American scholars. Simultaneously, the visiting scholars will gain a deeper understanding of Tainan and Taiwanese culture through their engagement with schools and the local community, moving beyond mere academic learning towards mutual understanding.

Since Tainan joined the Fulbright Program in the 113th academic year with 10 American scholars, the number has steadily increased. In the 114th academic year, 12 scholars participated, and this year, 16 scholars are joining. These scholars serve as teaching partners in English classrooms, co-planning lessons, and participating in school activities. They bring diverse cultural experiences into the students' learning environment, while also enabling Taiwanese teachers to exchange teaching methodologies and expand their curriculum design possibilities.

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Communication with students doesn't necessarily rely on fluent language; finding common interests can also bridge the gap.

One returning scholar, Auden, who is in his second year of teaching English at Zhongxiao Junior High School, shared his experience. He found common ground with students through chess, demonstrating that effective communication isn't solely dependent on language fluency. He encourages new scholars to embrace the Taiwanese saying "slowly, slowly" (慢慢來), advising them to allow themselves time to adjust to challenges and to seek help when needed.

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When facing setbacks, give yourself time to adjust and be brave enough to seek help.