National Chengchi University sparks debate over Mandarin class taught in English

國立政治大學因開設全英語授課的國文課引發爭議

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — National Chengchi University stirred debate after seeking a Ph.D. student in Chinese literature to teach a Mandarin-language course entirely in English, PTS reported Monday.

According to UDN, NCCU said the class aims to introduce Mandarin to foreign students from a cross-cultural perspective. The university said using English helps international students better grasp the material and engage in cultural exchange.

Former NCCU College of Foreign Languages Dean Chen Chao-ming (陳超明) said learning a language through translation weakens fluency and understanding. “Mandarin should be taught in Mandarin,” while foreigners could still use English to explore Chinese culture or ideas, Chen suggested.

Chen added that Taiwan’s long reliance on translation in English learning has led many students to study for years without being able to speak. He said the best way to learn a language is through immersion and frequent interaction with native speakers.

Yang Tsung-han (楊宗翰), an associate professor at National Taipei University of Education, added that Mandarin graduates should not feel pressured to teach in English to stay employable since that is not their area of expertise.