"How can we further enhance NTU students' English proficiency beyond the traditional classroom settings?" This question has been consistently at the forefront of our minds since the establishment of the Center for Bilingual Education (CBE).
Typically, Taiwanese students demonstrate comparatively stronger English listening and reading abilities than speaking and writing skills, often due to limited opportunities for practical application. Recognizing this gap, we introduced Chatterbox Cafe. This activity recruits NTU international students as Table Masters to host conversations with domestic students, providing a dynamic environment for language practice and cultural exchange. Our primary goal is to create a safe space for students to engage in discussions on various topics, to boost their confidence when using the language, and, more importantly, to meet new friends.
Since the beginning, 40 international students have been recruited, representing diverse countries such as the USA, the UK, Russia, Swaziland, Japan, Indonesia, etc. Before putting them to work, these individuals underwent a rigorous interview process, followed by a comprehensive training session where they learned how to facilitate discussion more effectively. The diversity of their nationalities not only exposes students to different English accents but also fosters the understanding of various cultures worldwide.
Chatterbox Cafe has become extremely effective in bridging the gap between classroom learning and practical language application for NTU students. By leveraging the diverse backgrounds of international students, we have created a vibrant platform for language practice and cultural exchange. The enthusiastic participation from students underlines the success in enhancing English proficiency and fostering confidence in language usage. The activity also serves as a testimony to how collaborative efforts can significantly benefit the NTU communities.
Chatterbox Café provides a platform for local and international students to engage in exchanges using English.
Noa (in the middle), a table master from the U.S., leads small groups in English discussions.
Nanami (in the middle), a table master from Japan, leads the small group discussions in English.
