Shui, Tao
Research
Teaching English as a second or foreign language and English-Chinese translation
It is intended to explore how to teach non-native speakers English, and what would be the best way of doing English-Chinese translation
What I most love about TESL is its pragmatic signification of the integration of inter-cultural communication. Because of China's accession into WTO, her metropolis Shanghai being the host city for the 2010 World Expo, and as one of the fastest developing countries, China has increasingly more international communication. Therefore, it is likely that there will be more Chinese studying English. And I believe excellent teachers and researchers must be trained to meet the needs. That is the reason I am so keen on doing the research.
In my undergraduate studies at ECNU, I have come to appreciate the value of TESL. Studying English and Education side by side has taught me how helpful a good teacher can be, who would observe the patterns of language teaching, assess the performance of learners, surmise why some students progress and others run into difficulties, and find out research methods of teaching English as a foreign language, and this is something I wish to continue doing. Whereas my study of English has enabled me to gain a global comparative perspective, I am eager to plunge into a foreign environment to communicate, learn, and teach in person. And Vancouver, being one of the most charming cities as well as being the home to one of the most respected international universities. The University of British Columbia, is, in my view, the very place to realize my dream.
My main motivation for applying to study in the Education graduate program at University of British Columbia (UBC) is its outstanding international reputation in the field of TESL. I am also exited about the broad approach the program takes to current issues in TESL theory and practice with its widely international focus.
As a language professional, I suggest that academic spirit should be essential for a study permit. And the people in Vancouver, in particular, at UBC, are very friendly. Though there may be some kind of cultural shock, one with determination can successfully overcome it and be capable of doing a good job. Don't worry about this.
When I just came my residential college, several people went to help carry my heavy luggage. I realized all of a sudden that although there are some natural barriers all over the world, as long as people can treat each other friendly, we can create a peaceful earth.
Chinese calligraphy, table tennis, writing
I see myself as a teacher or working for the government or for a company.
