"Five Love Languages to a United World"-A Mandarin Demonstration Class by National Taiwan University of Science and Technology

On June 25, a delegation from the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST) visited Kumamoto University, offering an unforgettable experience for our students through an innovative and engaging Mandarin Demonstration Class. Led by Professor Cathy Weng, along with another faculty member and students from various universities in Taiwan, the class was designed to foster cultural exchange and enhance communication. NTUST is one of the member universities of University Academic Alliance in Taiwan (UAAT) and promotes Mandarin education along with other universities in Taiwan.

The session was attended by two faculty members, 15 Japanese students, international students, and several staff members from Kumamoto University. The class began with an introduction to the "Five Love Languages*". Even though many participants were meeting for the first time, the activity successfully improved relationships and promoted better communication by encouraging a deeper understanding of each other's languages of love.

Participants were then divided into small groups and tasked with selecting one card representing one of the Five Love Languages, which would serve as the central theme for their artwork. They were encouraged to add cultural elements and symbols from Taiwan, incorporating artistic patterns and totems. As the groups collaborated, they engaged in lively discussions about the role assignments, the design process, and the cultural significance of the chosen Taiwanese elements. The project allowed students to communicate in Mandarin, English, and Japanese, as well as use body language and the newly learned love languages to motivate each other. In the end, each group produced a unique art piece that symbolized their collaborative effort and cultural exchange.

This demonstration class not only showcased the fun and creative ways of learning Mandarin but also marked the beginning of a deeper exchange between Kumamoto University and the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology.

*The Five Love Languages:
A concept introduced by Dr. Gary Chapman in his book The 5 Love Languages, which includes Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch.