Oregon classroom being immersed in Chinese
This is somewhat odd and shows the times they are a-changing.
Organizers of a Chinese language and education fair in Oregon are offering places in a Chinese language immersion school.
Kay Shaver, a steering committee member of Advocates for Chinese Immersion Education said, ‘The purpose of a fair is, first, to have fun. But in the process of having fun we’re hoping the community can become a little more familiar with the Chinese language and learn more about immersion education, and Chinese immersion education in particular.’
Board members found the arguments in favor of Chinese immersion — China’s global ascendency, the popularity of the district’s other immersion programs, evidence of the educational benefits of language immersion at a young age — compelling.
But they said there are still many unanswered questions. In truth, no one has ever convincingly demonstrated that such immersion courses provide and adequate return for time spent.
Helen Liu, on the steering committee, said, ‘Everywhere we go, I hear people say positive things about it. Most people seem very supportive.’
That this should be happening in Oregon is a matter for wonder.
Source: Oregon Register Guard
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