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During my time in Taiwan, I got to visit a range of educational institutions. I visited a technical high school, an elementary school, a middle school, and then finally a college campus. At every stage, I was enveloped in the academic and cultural similarities and differences between American and Taiwanese schools.
Getting to speak with both students and teachers was an invaluable part of this experience. While I was focused on my research question, ultimately I was able to gather so much additional information that I want to share here.
Overall, Taiwanese schools feel focused on safety, student development, and preparation for the future.
A lot of the cultural differences between American and Taiwanese schools were found not in the classroom, but in the hallways. Like many Asian schools, students wear socks and slippers in the classroom and store their shoes in cubbies outside. They are responsible for cleaning the schools during passing time and homeroom. We saw many students sweeping and cleaning their desks. Students at the high school level also have the freedom of a convenience store where they can fuel up for the day!
At the high school level, students were challenged to work on technical, practical projects. They had access to labs, 3-D printing, and robotics. It was really rewarding to see how students specialize on these tracks and prepare for their future.
At the elementary and middle school, students were engaged in vocabulary strategies in many classrooms to build their understanding of English and their collaboration skills.
Vocabulary learning opportunities were placed throughout all parts of the school. What was truly unique was that many of these schools were trilingual. Students received instruction not only in Mandarin and English, but also Hakka. In this way, traditional languages and cultures were preserved.
The SDGs in Action
The SDGs in Action
Another admirable element of the Taiwanese school system is their commitment to the sustainable development goals. At the middle school level, there was a hydroponics lab where students were growing herbs and plants that could actually be used in their culinary classrooms and kitchens. We got to utilize their "white water snowflake" crops by making bagels in their cafeteria.
The extensive use of hands-on learning activities, vocabulary instruction, and culturally responsive strategies were my biggest takeaways from these site visits, and something that I will be taking back with me to my American school sites.
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