今日去參觀Sheffield的Weston Park的博物館，雖然範圍不大，典藏也有些紛雜，但是，非常有趣，第一次感受到逛博物館的樂趣。
首先是Sheffield本身的歷史發展。來這裡念書，多少會好奇這裡的歷史，不僅是遠古的，還有近代的，知道這個城市從原本骯髒的工業城轉型為一個商業化的都市，過去的鋼鐵產業以及生活，對於柴契爾夫人關閉礦坑政策的反對等等。真覺得當初剛來時，就應該參觀這裡，會有更多的歷史面的理解。
其次，是各種的館藏。這種小博物館，館藏卻很繁雜，從螞蟻、蜜蜂這些活生生的巢，以至於各種昆蟲、古今動物的骨骸等等。還有北極館，說明寒帶動物如何覓食。還有木乃伊館，當時英國人流行去買木乃伊回來放。另外這次特展是顏色的展覽等等。
英國確實是一個世界性的國家，放眼全世界。當初他們殖民各地時，帶回的戰利品，然後收藏起來，成為自己的成就感。或者透過這些展品，讓他們的子民，感受自己是世界帝國的榮耀。所以，我覺得英國的博物館特別興盛，除了倫敦大大小小博物館之外，Sheffield這樣的小城市也能有三個博物館，可見他們的文化對於博物館的重視。
不過，對我而言有趣的地方，在於他們在博物館安排上，還有各種可以動手做的物品。美術展品旁邊提供圖畫紙，讓人們（兒童）學習畫畫，甚至畫作旁放上聲音鈕，按下去後，可以聆聽畫作的聲音，通常是一段符合畫作意涵的音樂。甚至在歷史瓦礫堆展旁，放上拼圖，讓小朋友知道，考古學者是如何一片一片批拼出來的。
又譬如，城市之間的交通，還有電動玩具般的選擇，可以選擇走路、開車、火車等，但是面對一些挑戰，說明當時交通的問題，甚至還放上歷史脈絡與季節的影響等。很可惜的，觸碰式螢幕耗損似乎很大，不太容易玩。不過，當初的用意是好的，以後可以考量用一些比較原始，但是耐用的做法。另外，在設置方面，還有許多要人們進一步打開、尋找，甚至還有提供維多利亞時期的女僕裝，讓遊客自行穿上。當然，還有捐錢箱，希望遊客至少可以捐三磅。
我想這樣的小博物館，種類繁雜，似乎有些像是中小學課本般，樣樣都有，但是不夠令人驚艷。可是就趣味性、動手做，以及補充學校教育中，無法親眼觀察的不足等等。這些都有很大的功用。我想，一般人很少會特別到這種小博物館來看，因此定位在教學補助與誘發孩子的好奇心來說，其實有很大的功用。
我到倫敦也看了幾個博物館，但是這個小博物館卻是讓我感觸較深，也認真待著比較久的地方。
2013年6月27日 星期四
2013年6月20日 星期四
York University: "The new ethnography"
Today I attended the
workshop in York University, “The new ethnography: Affect, anxiety and event”
by Professor Stephen Linstead.
York is a beautiful
town, and has long history. It is said that it started 1000 years ago. In the
downtown, there is an ancient wall along the city.
To my surprise, the
traffic is heavy and a lot of tourists. On the other hand, there are also many
spaces for planting, a wide range of pastry and gorgeous campus
“Ethnography” is
really a strange field. I know the problem or positive empericalism. However,
it’s not easy to accept the way ethnography conduct research. It’ s like a
story and another story.
The professor
recommend, “Ordinary affects”(Kathleen Stewart 2007). He said it’s a very good. He himself also added a lot of stick on the book and said he read the book repeatedly.
Another is “Writing a new ethnography”
Karen Hom, Liquadated,
An Ethnography of Wall Street
What is the theorical
foundation of ethnography? I think it can tell many stories and can tell us
more about the world. We can’t tell these things. You can observe the world,
finding many interesting moment.
For instance, if we
would like to know the theory of cancer, we can read the scientific report
about the recovery rates. But we also can read the narrative story of the
patients with cancer. If we read more and we can understand the patients with
cancer more. Better than mere digital number.
For me, its attractive
point is that it is flexible and can give us a whole (part) image of the
phenomenon in depth.
How do I adopt this
method? I don’t think I am courageous enough to use this method. However, I can
have my research diary. Keep the diary and to see what happened to me. I think
that I can record the observers I investigate.
It’s not easy to have
a bravely new beginning, but I can start it from a first try and make a better
or make it every time. I have to start it today and I hope I can do it better.
I think people devote
themselves to academic life, they have to be interested in books and arguments.
Trust the power of reason and knowledge. Enjoy the game of the words. Enjoy
language and wonder about the world and curious about how people think and
argue.
2013年6月19日 星期三
嚴厲與學習
在英國學習的階段，很少碰到板起臉來的老師。一般鼓勵態度較多，學習起來確實比較輕鬆，或是鬆散，對自己的要求也不那麼嚴格。當然，還是有聽到朋友的老板，有嚴厲型的，而且還會損人的。
在英語寫作上，碰到一位印度裔的女老師。她的態度起初很高傲，而且十分冷漠。我起先有些不適應，因為之前的老師，大多頗為和善，而且總是會說你的文章很有趣，寫得很好之類。只有這個老師，要我每天拿文章來念，要我想清楚要表達些什麼意思，然後寫上二十遍、三十遍，想清楚自己要表達的方式。她說寫作是最困難的一件事。我自詡為快筆，很少認真看待自己的寫作內容，常常過於倉促。
她的觀點對我而言，確實有當頭棒喝的感覺。我需要在寫作上更加強，她說每天念文章半小時，讓語感進入我們的腦中。我希望每天這樣做，加上聽力練習，相信我會更進步的。
在英語寫作上，碰到一位印度裔的女老師。她的態度起初很高傲，而且十分冷漠。我起先有些不適應，因為之前的老師，大多頗為和善，而且總是會說你的文章很有趣，寫得很好之類。只有這個老師，要我每天拿文章來念，要我想清楚要表達些什麼意思，然後寫上二十遍、三十遍，想清楚自己要表達的方式。她說寫作是最困難的一件事。我自詡為快筆，很少認真看待自己的寫作內容，常常過於倉促。
她的觀點對我而言，確實有當頭棒喝的感覺。我需要在寫作上更加強，她說每天念文章半小時，讓語感進入我們的腦中。我希望每天這樣做，加上聽力練習，相信我會更進步的。
2013年6月18日 星期二
British Library: The Exhibition of Power and Propanganda
今日到大英圖書館，參觀一個名為權力與宣傳(power and propaganda)的展覽。這個展覽大抵在談操作性傳播（propaganda）的問題。其中，國家當然是主要角色，尤其是在戰爭期間，如何提振我方士氣，鼓勵婦女工作（尤其是原先被視為專屬男性的工作），改變飲食習慣（因糧食缺乏，原先吃火雞的，改為吃羊肉）等等；在對外方面，則是打擊敵軍士氣、讓對手恐懼等等。到了近代，有趣的是，宣傳無所不在，這其中包括對 於健康資訊的宣傳，展覽中都拿來檢討。最後則是Twitter的每分每秒的展示，這已經不是單方的，但是卻在引導性下，成為一種宣傳的樣貌。
其中有趣的，在於看到原書中對於「propaganda」最早出現的書。以及各國在戰爭期間的宣傳手法，其實就跟台灣以前的心理戰非常類似。另外，展覽將政府對於健康的宣傳，也視為一種宣傳。
其實，這裡有一個重要的預設，此時溝通的對象不是理性的個體，不是啓蒙。而比較接近的是面對「無知或不理性的群眾」。因為群眾無知，所以只能用比較極端的方式，利用恐嚇或是。即使視理性的個人，可能都會因為一時貪圖方便，結果闖紅燈，所以這種恐懼訴求的宣傳，手段激烈，但是知道個人不是機器人，只要接受指令，理性知識，就可以立即行動。
這裡就出現一個問題，根本否決宣傳與教育，認為理性個體，不需要恐嚇，誤導。但是，社會運作並非如此，有很大的群體，或現時尚，這些產生效果。譬如香煙盒上貼上警示圖案，這是一種propagnada，在理論上可以成立嗎？我覺得這是一個有趣的問題。如果可以接受。理由之一，是成癮性的問題。因為這些人不是理性的個體。因此，其他有害人體的產品，譬如酒、珍珠奶茶等等，政府不需要限制。可是，這種說法對於第一次買煙的人，也不公平。因為
那時他們沒有成癮。而且，每個第一次的人，都沒有成隱。其次，倘若心理影響因素大的話，這種做法反而是惡化吸煙產生疾病的問題。這是一個值得進一步討論的議題。
另外，展覽中也有另外一個值得討論的話題。就在於媒體與政治的邏輯不同，媒體講求的消費者，若能有新聞性，通常就是出乎常理，譬如陰謀論等。但是，政治要能結合眾意，就是要事務照著常理走，讓群眾朝著政府設定的方向走，否則半途而廢。或者政府施政，受到制軸。換言之，這裡在討論的是政府宣傳的必要性。一個是從群眾的特性著眼；一個是從政府的角色著眼。
另外，還有一個角度是從媒體出發。政府可以運用媒體？
我覺得宣傳是一個值得探討的政治哲學議題。可以進一步發揮。
其中有趣的，在於看到原書中對於「propaganda」最早出現的書。以及各國在戰爭期間的宣傳手法，其實就跟台灣以前的心理戰非常類似。另外，展覽將政府對於健康的宣傳，也視為一種宣傳。
其實，這裡有一個重要的預設，此時溝通的對象不是理性的個體，不是啓蒙。而比較接近的是面對「無知或不理性的群眾」。因為群眾無知，所以只能用比較極端的方式，利用恐嚇或是。即使視理性的個人，可能都會因為一時貪圖方便，結果闖紅燈，所以這種恐懼訴求的宣傳，手段激烈，但是知道個人不是機器人，只要接受指令，理性知識，就可以立即行動。
這裡就出現一個問題，根本否決宣傳與教育，認為理性個體，不需要恐嚇，誤導。但是，社會運作並非如此，有很大的群體，或現時尚，這些產生效果。譬如香煙盒上貼上警示圖案，這是一種propagnada，在理論上可以成立嗎？我覺得這是一個有趣的問題。如果可以接受。理由之一，是成癮性的問題。因為這些人不是理性的個體。因此，其他有害人體的產品，譬如酒、珍珠奶茶等等，政府不需要限制。可是，這種說法對於第一次買煙的人，也不公平。因為
那時他們沒有成癮。而且，每個第一次的人，都沒有成隱。其次，倘若心理影響因素大的話，這種做法反而是惡化吸煙產生疾病的問題。這是一個值得進一步討論的議題。
另外，展覽中也有另外一個值得討論的話題。就在於媒體與政治的邏輯不同，媒體講求的消費者，若能有新聞性，通常就是出乎常理，譬如陰謀論等。但是，政治要能結合眾意，就是要事務照著常理走，讓群眾朝著政府設定的方向走，否則半途而廢。或者政府施政，受到制軸。換言之，這裡在討論的是政府宣傳的必要性。一個是從群眾的特性著眼；一個是從政府的角色著眼。
另外，還有一個角度是從媒體出發。政府可以運用媒體？
我覺得宣傳是一個值得探討的政治哲學議題。可以進一步發揮。
2013年6月15日 星期六
Drink and dance
In Taiwan, I seldom have chance to drink. In my wife's family, nowadays drinking alcohol almost is forbidden for the reason of the parent's health. Although my mother likes to drink a little bit, I have rare opportunity to eat with her especially in an atmosphere of drink.
Coming to Sheffield two days later, my America friend invited me to drink with other classmates. On that day, we drink in at least three pubs. For me, it is really amazing. Those people came inside even without a seat but standing drink and talk. No one is dancing and no place. Only drink. For them, choosing a good taste is an important decision. I went to the pub several times to celebrate friend's birthday, ViVA past or just hang out. However, I never saw place to dance.
Once, one of my friends invited me to a club with dance place. I was happy to try and know no there was no possibility that someone would be interested in us for we are foreigners. To my surprise, my friend was really fit in the dance club. He dance awkwardly but had his own style. Many young persons are interested in his dances. We can be gather around buy many persons. Anyway, it's a interesting experience. However, the music is terrible loudly. If people often worked or danced here, their ear must get hurt. On the other hand, to know how to dance is good and can enjoy the time.
I know my limits and that's my life. I am glad have a chance to see how it look like and know once that it's not my life there.
Coming to Sheffield two days later, my America friend invited me to drink with other classmates. On that day, we drink in at least three pubs. For me, it is really amazing. Those people came inside even without a seat but standing drink and talk. No one is dancing and no place. Only drink. For them, choosing a good taste is an important decision. I went to the pub several times to celebrate friend's birthday, ViVA past or just hang out. However, I never saw place to dance.
Once, one of my friends invited me to a club with dance place. I was happy to try and know no there was no possibility that someone would be interested in us for we are foreigners. To my surprise, my friend was really fit in the dance club. He dance awkwardly but had his own style. Many young persons are interested in his dances. We can be gather around buy many persons. Anyway, it's a interesting experience. However, the music is terrible loudly. If people often worked or danced here, their ear must get hurt. On the other hand, to know how to dance is good and can enjoy the time.
I know my limits and that's my life. I am glad have a chance to see how it look like and know once that it's not my life there.
 |
| After midnight, there are still a lot of people more than in day time. |
2013年6月13日 星期四
The curious child
This talk gives me three points:
1. We praise the curiosity of the child, but we don't like "childish" adult. If a adult has too many curiosities, we will despise them as childish?
2. One audience asked about relationship of the curiosity. I felt sick for people always thought of Foucault. It's a little bit unhealthy. Not everything should be involved with power or there are more interesting perspectives. Why should we choose a dark side?
3. In fact, most museums are not friendly with children. Therefore, I think if the museum curator could pay attention of the curiosity of the children. That is good.
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Original Information :
The Curious Child
5:15pm, Tuesday 11 June, Humanities Research Institute, Gell Street, Sheffield
The 'Curious Child' is a familiar figure in literature, popular culture and science. In children's books, curious children range from mischievous young figures to restless adventurers. In Developmental and Educational Psychology, too, children are understood through curiosity, and curiosity through childhood. This session explores the figure of the curious child, attempting to distinguish myth from reality. It brings together a series of cultural critics and curators whose work is either about or for children. The speakers will each bring and speak about a 'curiosity' from their museum collection or library.
Kim Streets, Director of Museums Sheffield, will chair the session. The Speakers are: Rachel Mulhearn, Curator and former Director of Merseyside Maritime Museum; David Rudd, Professor of Children's Literature, University of Bolton; and Lyndsey Mackay, Curator of Curious Exhibition, St. Mungo's Musem, Glasgow.
WAS: Writing Advisory Service_some comments
These days just ended the exam week and starts summer vacation. The summer school for language does not begin yet. Therefore, this week the English language center offer many opportunities for writing advisory service. In the past, I could only register about once two week. This week I can go there for one hour every day. It's really useful to revise my paper and have some basic English conversation.
Yesterday, I prepare a draft of paper but the tutor seems not so interested in it. However, we started to have a very long conversation. In the beginning, I introduced the history of Taiwan and China. In fact, it's a very familiar topic for me. I have introduced this one for several times. Later, I felt a little boring. I ask her questions about Britain. She said that Britain is in a mud situation. They feel the economics are very bad. Comparing with decades ago, still in their memory, their life is much better and know their future would be better. However, these years people changed a lot. She though that selfishness becomes more serious. Many of the young generation only think about themselves. They don't think about obligation but rights only. Moreover, drug and alcohol are much serious problems for them. Those hurt rational and reasoning. People cannot think rationally. Immigrants are problems, too. Too many people abuse the welfare and then the government cut the budget more and more. Therefore, she thought the discontent is serious and easily to have a riot.
Yesterday, I prepare a draft of paper but the tutor seems not so interested in it. However, we started to have a very long conversation. In the beginning, I introduced the history of Taiwan and China. In fact, it's a very familiar topic for me. I have introduced this one for several times. Later, I felt a little boring. I ask her questions about Britain. She said that Britain is in a mud situation. They feel the economics are very bad. Comparing with decades ago, still in their memory, their life is much better and know their future would be better. However, these years people changed a lot. She though that selfishness becomes more serious. Many of the young generation only think about themselves. They don't think about obligation but rights only. Moreover, drug and alcohol are much serious problems for them. Those hurt rational and reasoning. People cannot think rationally. Immigrants are problems, too. Too many people abuse the welfare and then the government cut the budget more and more. Therefore, she thought the discontent is serious and easily to have a riot.
2013年6月11日 星期二
轉貼：破英語，讓你走進全世界！
學英文並不難，趨勢大師大前研一強調，所謂一口好英語，並不是指英語流暢，而是文法或語言都不正確的「破英文」。重點在於，能否用英文傳達出你想傳達的訊息，而不是說出多完美的英文。
「一隻指南針與船舵皆已失靈、等待沉沒的船隻，」優衣庫（Uniqlo）創辦人柳井正曾如此形容日本。針對日本新鮮人的調查顯示，社會新鮮人有一半不願意到國外工作，認為風險太高，也沒有吸引力。柳井正說「年輕人不具競爭意識，對自己的能力沒有自信，更不認為自己是國際人才。」
針對此問題，趨勢大師大前研一在《放膽去闖》一書中提到解方。日本企業要走出去，要先掌握有利的商業武器：一是培育國際級的領導人才，二是儘速提升英語力。
這些病徵聽起來很熟悉？日本的問題，也是台灣的問題；大前研一提出的兩個方法更是相輔相成，是台灣企業需要的政策，也是年輕人突破困境的必備條件。
用英文傳達訊息，而非說出完美文法
所幸，我們看到部分台灣企業，因為服務全球客戶、管理聯繫海內外據點，積極培養員工英語能力。例如，衛浴及櫥櫃設備品牌製造商成霖企業，不只是銷售、研發部門，就連行政財會、人力資源等部門工作人員，都必須具備撰寫英語電子郵件，和進行英語視訊會議的能力。
所幸，我們看到部分台灣企業，因為服務全球客戶、管理聯繫海內外據點，積極培養員工英語能力。例如，衛浴及櫥櫃設備品牌製造商成霖企業，不只是銷售、研發部門，就連行政財會、人力資源等部門工作人員，都必須具備撰寫英語電子郵件，和進行英語視訊會議的能力。
再看科技業的例子，趨勢科技一開始就自我定位為跨國企業，以英文溝通深植於企業文化，但趨勢仍不忘找機會精進員工的英語溝通力。以每年舉辦的工程師高峰會（engineer camp）為例，決賽隊伍還要做6分鐘英語簡報。這當中，趨勢科技針對各隊給予英語簡報訓練，藉此刺激員工學習慾和表現慾。
但大多數企業還是欠缺語言管理工具。
學英文說起來老生常談，卻是許多人心中的痛。你上一次下定決心學英文是什麼時候？總是付了大筆錢給補習班，上課時間卻漸漸讓天氣變化和朋友邀約侵蝕。
其實學英文不難。大前研一在《低IQ時代》中將英語能力列為謀生３神器之一，但他也強調「所謂一口好英語，並不是指英語流暢。因為世界共通的語言並不是英語，而是文法或語言都不正確的『破英文』。」
因為英語只是世界上8%的人的母語，對絕大部分的人來說，英文只是第二語言。所以重點在於，你能否用英文傳達出你想傳達的訊息，而不是說出多完美的英文。
而且，所謂的破英文也已經自成一格，甚至以「新語言」的姿態現身。前IBM法國分公司總經理尚保羅‧奈易耶（Jean-Paul Nerrière），就提倡以簡化到只有1500字的輕巧版英文，取代字彙多如牛毛的英文，叫做「世界通英語」（Globish）。Globish在日、韓掀起風潮，日本樂天、優衣庫都要求員工學習Globish；韓國也出現許多教導Globish的補習班。
隨時鍛鍊英語腦，隨時派上用場
你的目標，是能自然地以英語在職場上溝通，也就是擁有面對不同場合，也能以英語直覺反應的英語腦。透過打造英語腦的幾個練習，你可以：
你的目標，是能自然地以英語在職場上溝通，也就是擁有面對不同場合，也能以英語直覺反應的英語腦。透過打造英語腦的幾個練習，你可以：
1.敢開口說英文：Globish鼓勵不完美的英文，講得不好，各種國籍的人更好溝通。
2.少背單字：Globish強調只用1500個單字，字彙不再是煩惱。
3.彈性學習：YouTube學習法，1分鐘空檔也能學，兼具休閒娛樂與學習功效。
4.現學現用：視訊會議、向外籍上司報告、跟外國人寒暄常用短句，背了馬上用。
5.救急查證機制：學會Google翻譯指令，讓Google幫你改英文。
6.扎實語言地基：捨棄複雜文法，比較中英文語言概念基本差異，掌握英文氣味。
7.擁有專屬英語資料庫：收集最想表達的句子，想用馬上查得到。
2.少背單字：Globish強調只用1500個單字，字彙不再是煩惱。
3.彈性學習：YouTube學習法，1分鐘空檔也能學，兼具休閒娛樂與學習功效。
4.現學現用：視訊會議、向外籍上司報告、跟外國人寒暄常用短句，背了馬上用。
5.救急查證機制：學會Google翻譯指令，讓Google幫你改英文。
6.扎實語言地基：捨棄複雜文法，比較中英文語言概念基本差異，掌握英文氣味。
7.擁有專屬英語資料庫：收集最想表達的句子，想用馬上查得到。
三星是企業提升英語力成功的典範。三星企業前總裁李健熙在1990年代進行企業改革後，即以成為世界一流企業為目標，因此三星十分重視員工的語言能力，一般員工的錄取標準是多益（TOEIC）900分（滿分990分），員工要晉升課長則必須達到920分。
反觀台灣，美國教育測驗服務社（ETS，Educational Testing Service）台灣區代表忠欣公司2012年發表「台灣1000大企業員工英語能力調查報告」。調查指出，台灣企業對多益要求是550分，韓國是700分。這巨大的差距，反映出兩國的企業發展現狀。企業經營者與人力資源主管也應該建立公司的語言管理工具，制定語言政策。
發揮商業與經濟效益的英文並不難，卻是企業和個人發展一定要走的一條路。
（撰文 / 張玉琦 編輯 / 郭明琪，本文取材自《經理人月刊》2013年1月號）
2013年6月10日 星期一
轉貼：戴勝益：22K元凶是菜英文！
名列幸福企業，照樣哀嘆人才難尋
戴勝益：22K元凶是菜英文！
▲ 戴勝益認為政府應重視培養學子的外語能力，才能讓台灣走出國際。
2012年國內大學畢業生起薪倒退嚕，而且是亞洲4小龍國家中唯一沒有成長的地區。今年景氣稍見復甦，人力銀行業者預估，年輕人起薪會小幅增長。不過，公司員工多達1 萬3,000人的王品集團董事長戴勝益直言：「台灣年輕人起薪低，最大原因就在不會講英文，22K的元凶就是不重視英文！」
王品連續2年登上媒體調查「新世代最嚮往企業」第1名及「幸福企業」前3名，戴勝益也不斷用新制度鼓勵各階層員工。例如，為了鼓勵工讀生，2年前王品將年終獎金發放對象擴及公司6,500名工讀生；為了讓中階主管穩定，今年開始執行員工持股信託計劃，公司每年將因此增加1.5億至2億元費用。為了鼓勵員工不斷學習，王品的店長1個月平均只有15天在店裡工作，其他時間不是休假、騎車， 就是在受訓、上課。
不過，即使如此樂意給員工高薪、好福利，戴勝益照樣哀嘆：「企業人才難尋！」為什麼連這樣的「幸福企業」都找不到適合的員工？戴勝益又為什麼認為，台灣年輕人薪水拉不高，問題出在英文能力差？趁著畢業季到來，《Smart》智富月刊特別專訪這位深受年輕世代喜愛的連鎖餐飲龍頭董事長，請他剖析自己用人的標準。以下是專訪紀要：
Why are there many English movies without subtitles?
In Taiwan, it is common to see a Chinese movie with Chinese and English subtitles at the same time. Why Chinese subtitle? It seems not make much sense. If everyone speak Chinese and then, the audience can listen well.
Tracing back to the history, not many people are familiar with Mandarin, which has been then set up as the only official language by Nationalist government since the 1950's (by speculation). At that time, many people in Taiwan only spoke Japanese and Taiwanese. Mainlanders following from the Nationalist government were also from different provinces with diverse dialectics. They were not relatively good in Mandarin. Fortunately, for the Chinese, they speak different dialectic but can recognize the same Chinese characters. Therefore, that a movie has subtitles with Chinese characters quite make sense. Why English title? Prepare to foreign audience, I guess.
This is a historical explanation. Another linguistic explanation, I guess. Chinese is not a language by pronunciation. English is a language by pronunciation, although it is not so matching as Spanish or French. When you heard the sound, you can spell it almost. In other words, to learn English should try to listen more sounds and memory the sound than the vocabulary. When you can say it, you can use the word and almost spell it in a rough right spelling.
In brief, to learn English in a easier way is to listen and speak rather than memory the vocabulary. Because if you can know how to speak, which means you have know the word more than half.
I might need advanced arguments to support this point.
Tracing back to the history, not many people are familiar with Mandarin, which has been then set up as the only official language by Nationalist government since the 1950's (by speculation). At that time, many people in Taiwan only spoke Japanese and Taiwanese. Mainlanders following from the Nationalist government were also from different provinces with diverse dialectics. They were not relatively good in Mandarin. Fortunately, for the Chinese, they speak different dialectic but can recognize the same Chinese characters. Therefore, that a movie has subtitles with Chinese characters quite make sense. Why English title? Prepare to foreign audience, I guess.
This is a historical explanation. Another linguistic explanation, I guess. Chinese is not a language by pronunciation. English is a language by pronunciation, although it is not so matching as Spanish or French. When you heard the sound, you can spell it almost. In other words, to learn English should try to listen more sounds and memory the sound than the vocabulary. When you can say it, you can use the word and almost spell it in a rough right spelling.
In brief, to learn English in a easier way is to listen and speak rather than memory the vocabulary. Because if you can know how to speak, which means you have know the word more than half.
I might need advanced arguments to support this point.
2013年6月8日 星期六
Castleton, Peak District, UK
This week the weather in Sheffield is quite good, sunshine and long day time till 10pm. Play time becomes longer.
My Pakistani friend invites me to visit Castleton. I am very happy that I also want to have a walk on the weekend. We have walked for a while and took a bus 272 from the place near Waitrose, a shopping center. During weekend, the bus comes every hour. Then, we exchange the ideas and information between Taiwan and Pakistan. He told me that there are many female politicians in Pakistan and about alcohol and sex, he explained to me by simile. He says if you ban the entry of the house, many people might get more curious and tries to climb or dig into the house. But if it is open and there might be no people wanting to enter. To ban and control is like this way. In other words, in a conservative society there are more leeway than we can imagine.
What are the most serious problems in Pakistan? I asked. He said, that first is the military power. This military general and soldiers hold their power and protect their own interests, making the civil government only their puppet. To enhance the legitimacy of their existence, they create war and quarrels against India. In fact, according to his perspective, India and Pakistan are the same culture, people. Even, there are more people believing in Muslims in India. Therefore, the difference in religion is not a good reason. Second problem is religious fraud. Some people by the guise of religion cheat others. The final one is ignorance, the illiteracy rate is still high.
He is a very kind person. On the way, he always asked me do you like it? How do you think? You see, it's fantastic, gorgeous and beautiful. Excellent, perfect. All the good words I can use I have practiced all day. I think it might be the difference between trait attribution and culture.
How about Castleton? I read the introduction briefly. It is said that since 1000 AD, people have built castle here and here are the mine of lead. This place is very beautiful and many people are paragliding and hangliding. It is the first time that I meet these player so close and they can say hello to me. The other thing is that they can stay in the sky very long.
My Pakistani friend invites me to visit Castleton. I am very happy that I also want to have a walk on the weekend. We have walked for a while and took a bus 272 from the place near Waitrose, a shopping center. During weekend, the bus comes every hour. Then, we exchange the ideas and information between Taiwan and Pakistan. He told me that there are many female politicians in Pakistan and about alcohol and sex, he explained to me by simile. He says if you ban the entry of the house, many people might get more curious and tries to climb or dig into the house. But if it is open and there might be no people wanting to enter. To ban and control is like this way. In other words, in a conservative society there are more leeway than we can imagine.
What are the most serious problems in Pakistan? I asked. He said, that first is the military power. This military general and soldiers hold their power and protect their own interests, making the civil government only their puppet. To enhance the legitimacy of their existence, they create war and quarrels against India. In fact, according to his perspective, India and Pakistan are the same culture, people. Even, there are more people believing in Muslims in India. Therefore, the difference in religion is not a good reason. Second problem is religious fraud. Some people by the guise of religion cheat others. The final one is ignorance, the illiteracy rate is still high.
He is a very kind person. On the way, he always asked me do you like it? How do you think? You see, it's fantastic, gorgeous and beautiful. Excellent, perfect. All the good words I can use I have practiced all day. I think it might be the difference between trait attribution and culture.
How about Castleton? I read the introduction briefly. It is said that since 1000 AD, people have built castle here and here are the mine of lead. This place is very beautiful and many people are paragliding and hangliding. It is the first time that I meet these player so close and they can say hello to me. The other thing is that they can stay in the sky very long.
2013年6月7日 星期五
論寫作
寫作真不是一件容易的事。
尤其現在的資訊爆炸，嘔心瀝血的著作，讀者也不過是一眼瞄過，如同過往雲煙。以前往往急著閱讀大量著作，現在終於可以體驗作者的心情。真正好的作者，應該會希望讀者讀慢一點，好好品嘗文字後面的真義。看了太多的網路資訊，圖書館堆滿書籍，我想很多人都急於吸收著大量的資訊，而沒有辦法靜下心來好好的閱讀一本書。這是我們時代的優勢，也是困境吧！
不過，對於寫作有興趣的人，其實不防就是開始寫，隨時開始。或者打開電腦，或者拿出一張紙，就是開始寫出你的想法、故事。第一次可能很死板，第二次可能很複雜，第一百次的時候，可能一個流暢的故事就出來。
文章是千古事，其實，人的一輩子，或有心走一行的人應該知道，一篇文章或一本書可以激起一些漣漪，人的一生也就是如此了。古人言立德、立功、立言，多少人在這前仆後繼的努力，我們既非書香世家，也非寒窗苦讀，又有何希望能有什麼名山大作。重點在於就是以真誠的心，反覆練習，既然有興趣於此，也就沒有什麼值不值的問題，就是做自己喜歡做的事。
其實，我們很多時候的回憶，就是透過文字或者照片，讓我們重新有了記憶。而照片往往會讓我們直觀感受，而忽略了當時種種的細節。文字則可以記錄點滴，幫助我們重新省視，或者就是珍惜流過的時光，細細品味。
人的一生中，有些時光過得很慢，有時候快得令人驚訝。但是，寫作可以讓我們在時光慢的時候，細細品嘗飛快的之處。
尤其現在的資訊爆炸，嘔心瀝血的著作，讀者也不過是一眼瞄過，如同過往雲煙。以前往往急著閱讀大量著作，現在終於可以體驗作者的心情。真正好的作者，應該會希望讀者讀慢一點，好好品嘗文字後面的真義。看了太多的網路資訊，圖書館堆滿書籍，我想很多人都急於吸收著大量的資訊，而沒有辦法靜下心來好好的閱讀一本書。這是我們時代的優勢，也是困境吧！
不過，對於寫作有興趣的人，其實不防就是開始寫，隨時開始。或者打開電腦，或者拿出一張紙，就是開始寫出你的想法、故事。第一次可能很死板，第二次可能很複雜，第一百次的時候，可能一個流暢的故事就出來。
文章是千古事，其實，人的一輩子，或有心走一行的人應該知道，一篇文章或一本書可以激起一些漣漪，人的一生也就是如此了。古人言立德、立功、立言，多少人在這前仆後繼的努力，我們既非書香世家，也非寒窗苦讀，又有何希望能有什麼名山大作。重點在於就是以真誠的心，反覆練習，既然有興趣於此，也就沒有什麼值不值的問題，就是做自己喜歡做的事。
其實，我們很多時候的回憶，就是透過文字或者照片，讓我們重新有了記憶。而照片往往會讓我們直觀感受，而忽略了當時種種的細節。文字則可以記錄點滴，幫助我們重新省視，或者就是珍惜流過的時光，細細品味。
人的一生中，有些時光過得很慢，有時候快得令人驚訝。但是，寫作可以讓我們在時光慢的時候，細細品嘗飛快的之處。
A round table of teaching
At noon time, I joined a round table holed by our department with light lunch. The talk invite three Latin scholars to present their research and teaching, also include our teachers to introduce our production week with a multimedia web site: jusnews. net, which is the work by MA students of Journalism Study, University of Sheffield.
Three guest speakers: one from Argentina, she shared with her workshop of civic engagement. She coordinates a free work shop to help the NGO to learn how to apply for the fund, communication or press release. For their efforts, they help the NGO and also gave the students opportunities to learn how to train people. I thought it is not easy only to ask the students as assistants. But they shall gives chances and responsibilities to them. Finally, the experience help them to enter into the society.
Another one from Spain, he offers a map of transparency of each local council information. The third one talked about English teaching program in Spain. Very interesting topics. Our teacher introduces they have a production week for the MA students to conduct media by themselves and learn from experience. I thought in the eastern society, we respect the elder and think students are not mature to handle things well. They have more freedom and respect here. But, just as Daniel Bell indicates that the eastern culture remind the attitude to learn and listen. I think both aspects should make a balance.
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Photo from Alejandro Álvarez Nobell |
My landlord in New Haven
I have never looked for a room to rend in Taiwan. However, I lived in a room rent by my family not looked for by me. All my student life stay in Taipei and I have no experience rending.
When I first time came to the US, I have a emergent job to find a place for my family, two kids and my wife. Fortunately, I lived with a new friend introduced by my brother-in-law. They are Christan and friendly. I felt a little embarrassed to live in a almost stranger's house. Their house is gorgeous. I arrived New Haven in the beginning of July and I have to find a place to stay for the whole year in fifteen days and then I would fly to Santa Cruz to attend an extensive English program supported by my Fulbright scholarship.
In the first days, I walked along the street and looked for the place for release. I tried to call the landlord or company and it is really a difficult step to talk with these issues in English. I felt much frustrated and the price is very expensive. While in Taiwan, all my family lived in a small sing room with bathroom and kitchen, in fact, live in my father-in-law's apartment. In the US, the company did not allow me to rend a single room or studio for my family. They asked me to live in a bigger space, two bedroom or three bedroom, which meant cost more. I was supported by the National Science Council and Fulbright but only enough for me alone not for all my family. Besides, some landlords heard I would take kids and they just said no, because they thought kids might destroy their furniture and make a noise to disturb others.
The day I had to leave for California was coming. I still could not find a place to stay. Finally I found a basement which was cheaper and I did not tell the company that I would bring the kids and I almost sighed the contracts and many documents. This place was neat Yale University, which was the down town with no safe place to walk or play for kids, but much convenient to school. I called home and discussed with my wife. She also told her friend, and her friend said that there might rats in the basement. Indeed, living in a basement, although, it could still have sunshine through the upper window. However, we have to see outside pedestrian's leg and head the loud noise in the down town. I also mentioned the place where I stayed, and my host professor also surprised at my decision.
At last, I turned down the deal. I called the agent, and said sorry that I could not move in for the reason of my family. At that time, I was worried that I might lost money and be sued. Fortunately, he expressed angry and went to talk with his superior and then talked to me that I could go without any compensation. It might be because I did not deposit any money for the contract, and therefore I could end the contract immediately without losing money. Anyway, I felt thankful for the situation.
The last two days, I have to fly to California. On the other hand, my friend also prepared to leave from here for they had a new job in the New York State. That meant I could not stay with them further. They have cleared out all things and waiting for selling it. Just the day before I left, I found a chance to talk with Elky, my landlord finally.
She was an immigrant from German and her husband from Austria. She was not very friendly looking in the beginning, more serious. However, I had to find a place and I talked with her and that I will only live in ten months. But I will pay 11 months and she even did not ask me for deposit. I felt very thankful.
I never dreamed that I could live in a house. They lived in the second and third floor and I lived in the first. Other houses were much more expensive for they looked more beautiful and new, but the price doubled. Or I think because they rend the house for whole building but I only rent for one floor.
Frank was the male landlord. He is 78 years old. At that time, I could not understand very well about what he said. He looked much kinder and nicer, but not easily to communicated with. All the facilities in my room were fixed by him, because the labor was very expensive here. They cleaned the yard and plant all beautiful flowers. We only enjoyed all their contribution. It is really a wonderful place for us to stay. While Emily came to New Haven, she was surprised that we have stayed in an area of mansion. I was proud of that and enjoyed the place very much.
During our residence, our kids really made a noise to disturb them. Elky would call me and ask whether we move the furniture and in fact she knew it was that the kids were jumping. We also had many parties in the house. Emily liked to cook and we enjoyed inviting people to talk with us. We had a great time there. In 2007, we left from the US, and in 2013, I came back and visited them again. I was so glad that nothing changed a lot. They are still there and their room are so elegant. Now, I could almost understand what they talk. I do have some progress.
When I first time came to the US, I have a emergent job to find a place for my family, two kids and my wife. Fortunately, I lived with a new friend introduced by my brother-in-law. They are Christan and friendly. I felt a little embarrassed to live in a almost stranger's house. Their house is gorgeous. I arrived New Haven in the beginning of July and I have to find a place to stay for the whole year in fifteen days and then I would fly to Santa Cruz to attend an extensive English program supported by my Fulbright scholarship.
In the first days, I walked along the street and looked for the place for release. I tried to call the landlord or company and it is really a difficult step to talk with these issues in English. I felt much frustrated and the price is very expensive. While in Taiwan, all my family lived in a small sing room with bathroom and kitchen, in fact, live in my father-in-law's apartment. In the US, the company did not allow me to rend a single room or studio for my family. They asked me to live in a bigger space, two bedroom or three bedroom, which meant cost more. I was supported by the National Science Council and Fulbright but only enough for me alone not for all my family. Besides, some landlords heard I would take kids and they just said no, because they thought kids might destroy their furniture and make a noise to disturb others.
The day I had to leave for California was coming. I still could not find a place to stay. Finally I found a basement which was cheaper and I did not tell the company that I would bring the kids and I almost sighed the contracts and many documents. This place was neat Yale University, which was the down town with no safe place to walk or play for kids, but much convenient to school. I called home and discussed with my wife. She also told her friend, and her friend said that there might rats in the basement. Indeed, living in a basement, although, it could still have sunshine through the upper window. However, we have to see outside pedestrian's leg and head the loud noise in the down town. I also mentioned the place where I stayed, and my host professor also surprised at my decision.
At last, I turned down the deal. I called the agent, and said sorry that I could not move in for the reason of my family. At that time, I was worried that I might lost money and be sued. Fortunately, he expressed angry and went to talk with his superior and then talked to me that I could go without any compensation. It might be because I did not deposit any money for the contract, and therefore I could end the contract immediately without losing money. Anyway, I felt thankful for the situation.
The last two days, I have to fly to California. On the other hand, my friend also prepared to leave from here for they had a new job in the New York State. That meant I could not stay with them further. They have cleared out all things and waiting for selling it. Just the day before I left, I found a chance to talk with Elky, my landlord finally.
She was an immigrant from German and her husband from Austria. She was not very friendly looking in the beginning, more serious. However, I had to find a place and I talked with her and that I will only live in ten months. But I will pay 11 months and she even did not ask me for deposit. I felt very thankful.
I never dreamed that I could live in a house. They lived in the second and third floor and I lived in the first. Other houses were much more expensive for they looked more beautiful and new, but the price doubled. Or I think because they rend the house for whole building but I only rent for one floor.
Frank was the male landlord. He is 78 years old. At that time, I could not understand very well about what he said. He looked much kinder and nicer, but not easily to communicated with. All the facilities in my room were fixed by him, because the labor was very expensive here. They cleaned the yard and plant all beautiful flowers. We only enjoyed all their contribution. It is really a wonderful place for us to stay. While Emily came to New Haven, she was surprised that we have stayed in an area of mansion. I was proud of that and enjoyed the place very much.
During our residence, our kids really made a noise to disturb them. Elky would call me and ask whether we move the furniture and in fact she knew it was that the kids were jumping. We also had many parties in the house. Emily liked to cook and we enjoyed inviting people to talk with us. We had a great time there. In 2007, we left from the US, and in 2013, I came back and visited them again. I was so glad that nothing changed a lot. They are still there and their room are so elegant. Now, I could almost understand what they talk. I do have some progress.
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| 2007/6 |
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| 2006/10 |
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| 2013/5 |
2013年6月5日 星期三
Leeds University: Class of Methodology
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Today I attended a class in Leeds University. Leeds, York
and Sheffield are the alliance of White Rose. These universities apply for fund
by patterns of gangs to gather to group to show its size power.
This class is about methodology, entitled as “Understanding
the Impact of Research Perspectives: The Importance of Metatheory, Research
Methodology and Reflexivity in Crafting Qualitative Research.”
To be brief, the professor indicates that any research
should be aware its approach is objective, subjective or intersubjective. Each
approach has its respective ontological and epistemic assumption. Moreover,
depending on different approaches has each rationality, durability, meanings,
historicity, mediation and form of knowledge. Objectivism relies on objective
reality and believe we can grape with it by specific procedure, and it
emphasizes causal relation. Subjectivism think that social realty is created by
human construction. There is no objective outside reality. And we can
understand and enrich human understanding. Intersubjectivism seems to stand
between and emphasize objective should be through dialogue and conversation to
create together.
This class stimulates me to read more about methodology and
research methods. Social science emphasizes the importance of “methods”. It is a necessary to have a clear concept of
methodology. In addition, in the beginning of the talk, the professor tells us
each time when we read or write an article. We should think about two things.
One is contribution. Does it contribute to theory, methodology or practice?
Second is coherence. Does the paper conduct coherence and rigor in validity? I think these two simple standards are very
useful.
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| University of Leeds, Business School |
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| City Council, Leeds, UK |
2013年6月3日 星期一
First School of Education Research Student Conference
Today, I attended a student conference by school of education. The students who sponsor the conference are really nice and willing to spend time on these, offering a chance for us to practice and learn from others. It is also a place for social interactions.
I met a lady who said that she is a political activist from Yemen. She looks tough and enjoys talking about politics. She talks about the problem of NGO, which every critical. She claims that these NGOs have spent years in these poor countries. Why is there no change? She says that because these people in NGOs don't really want the poor independent. If all the needed can stand alone. All these NGOs have no reason to survive. So they don't really want to help the people. They consider themselves first. Second, she mentions that these foreign representatives with money come to their places. They don't know anything about the rural area but want to tell the local people to change. How could be possible? These people don't know local people needs and have and have-not. First point, I thought it a little too cynical. However, I am not qualified to judge. Second point is quite convincing for me. She campaigns for woman' s empower of education. In poor countries, girls are sacrificed for the boys, she says.
Another interesting article, one of my friends has many activities for the audience to play, including drawing and tell the drawing to the one sitting besides you. She also asks us what is our definition of a better English teacher. I find it interesting to have all these activities, not only attend a lecture. Another lecture which I am interested in, the presenter seemingly from Middle East very good Englsh, is about rhetorical moves in an English article. She emphasizes that it's good to emphasize the result of a study and make the article clearly.
I myself present "Learning 'Rhetoric': To be a part of Education". I argue that political rhetoric shall be a part of civic education, which will make our democracy better. I hope to write it in Chinese this summer.
I met a lady who said that she is a political activist from Yemen. She looks tough and enjoys talking about politics. She talks about the problem of NGO, which every critical. She claims that these NGOs have spent years in these poor countries. Why is there no change? She says that because these people in NGOs don't really want the poor independent. If all the needed can stand alone. All these NGOs have no reason to survive. So they don't really want to help the people. They consider themselves first. Second, she mentions that these foreign representatives with money come to their places. They don't know anything about the rural area but want to tell the local people to change. How could be possible? These people don't know local people needs and have and have-not. First point, I thought it a little too cynical. However, I am not qualified to judge. Second point is quite convincing for me. She campaigns for woman' s empower of education. In poor countries, girls are sacrificed for the boys, she says.
Another interesting article, one of my friends has many activities for the audience to play, including drawing and tell the drawing to the one sitting besides you. She also asks us what is our definition of a better English teacher. I find it interesting to have all these activities, not only attend a lecture. Another lecture which I am interested in, the presenter seemingly from Middle East very good Englsh, is about rhetorical moves in an English article. She emphasizes that it's good to emphasize the result of a study and make the article clearly.
I myself present "Learning 'Rhetoric': To be a part of Education". I argue that political rhetoric shall be a part of civic education, which will make our democracy better. I hope to write it in Chinese this summer.
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