Courses

In this second-year course, students develop their conversational and narrative skills using carefully selected vocabulary and grammar. The textbook is based on authentic conversation, moving gradually from casual to formal styles. The text covers the most important communicative skills needed by American students studying in Taiwan and China and provides a deeper understanding of cultural and intellectual differences between US and Chinese and Taiwanese societies.

· Tailored Textbook:
A fully customized textbook designed for the intensive study-abroad experience. Every lesson connects directly to what you see, hear, and live in Taiwan.
· Immediate Application:
Use what you learn right away. The vocabulary, grammar, and communicative tasks you practice in class are the very ones you’ll use outside the classroom in real life.
· Reflective Observation:
Compare the society described in your lessons with what you observe firsthand in Taiwan. This comparative learning deepens your understanding and helps you develop a more analytical, well-rounded perspective of local life.
· Rapid Progression:
From daily routines to social issues, topics and communicative challenges quickly rise in depth and complexity as your language skills grow.
· Focused Learning:
Vocabulary and grammar are organized by function and importance, with targeted practice and assessment, making your learning more focused, efficient, and effective.

Prerequisite: One year of college-level Chinese or the equivalent.

Relevant Files: Syllabus (2025); Teaching Schedule (2025); Lesson 1 Text (printed textbooks will be given to you at the start of the program)

In this third-year course, students study contemporary Taiwan and China and develop their speaking and writing skills by constructing new compounds, using idiomatic expressions, and mastering formal and informal styles. The curriculum is designed to further improve listening and reading abilities through texts geared specifically to the understanding of Chinese and Taiwanese culture and society.

· First-Hand Insights:
Gain a deep understanding of Taiwanese society and culture through close observation and interviews with locals.
· Diverse Perspectives:
Exchange ideas with young people in Taiwan and classmates from diverse backgrounds, developing intercultural awareness and critical thinking in an immersive setting.
· Communication First:
Master complex real-life interactions by adapting your communication to relationships, emotions, tones, and purposes through a series of practical, task-based activities.
· Register Awareness:
Learn how to choose expressions for different contexts—from casual conversations to formal discussions and analyses—so you can express yourself appropriately and confidently.
· Focused Learning:
Vocabulary and grammar are organized by function and importance, with targeted practice and flexible assessment, making your learning more focused, efficient, and effective.

Prerequisite: Two years of college-level Chinese or the equivalent.

Relevant Files: Syllabus (2025); Teaching Schedule (2025); Lesson 1 Text (printed textbooks will be given to you at the start of the program)