As the winter approaches, we invited Dr. Yvonne Loong, Acting Director of the Independent Learning Centre (ILC) at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. She is a certified language and communication educator, primarily in English studies. Besides working at CUHK, Dr. Loong has many years of experience teaching English and coaching students for language proficiency improvement at The University of Hong Kong and the National University of Singapore.

Helping students to improve their soft skills is an essential duty for educators. This is what Dr. Loong and Prof. David Chen, our College Master, have made enormous efforts over the years in their teaching career. Both emphasize the importance of continued improvement of English proficiency through hard work and practical learning.

Language is not a barrier. Instead, it is a bridge.
Language is important. It communicates ideas and thoughts in a meaningful way. It bridges all pieces of information and knowledge we have. For example, information availability in English sometimes makes it hard for Chinese learners to understand, but it also enables them to hone their education to a higher level. Language acts as a bridge and stairs between these barriers.

These barriers nowadays are neglectable thanks to globalization – the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence among people, nations, and economies, which has undergone significant evolution. Beginning in the 15th century, early globalization was marked by trade and exploration.

With the improvement of technology in these millennia, globalization entered new phases. In the beginning, Globalization 2.0 was ignited by the emergence of the internet, which enabled the rapid exchange of information and ideas. Nowadays, Globalization 4.0 is advancing technologies and distributing the widespread digitalization of products, services, and interactions. In the old days, people only consumed products and services from their countries. 

Today, globalization transforms physical goods and encompasses digital products and services. This shift has also encouraged greater mobility among people, with many studying, working, or living in countries different from where they were born.

To prosper in this era of globalization, becoming a global citizen is essential. English has emerged as the most widely spoken functional language, followed by Chinese. Proficiency in English is now becoming necessary as tremendous knowledge and resources are accessible through it. Learning English while connecting it with other cultural and linguistic knowledge, such as Chinese, also hones intercultural understanding, solidifying Global Citizenship's importance.

Global citizenship in a globalization age

The Independent Learning Centre at CUHK, under the directorship of Dr. Loong, aims to cultivate global citizenship by offering online courses focusing on critical areas such as intercultural communication – understanding how cultural differences shape communication, media, and technology – navigating global digital platforms effectively, and global labor and employment, which prepares for international workplace dynamics.

One exciting thought shared by Dr. Loong is how low-context cultures and high-context cultures have different approaches to understanding human behavior. Low-context cultures (e.g., Western cultures) communicate more directly and explicitly. Meanwhile, high-context cultures (e.g., many Asian cultures) often communicate indirectly and nuancedly.

Miscommunications often arise when people from different cultures interpret actions or words differently. You may notice in your surroundings that non-verbal communication, such as gestures, eye contact, and personal space, can vary between cultures. For example, Asian cultures generally use fewer gestures, while Western cultures may rely on more expressive body language.
Now, how can we reduce misunderstandings and stimulate meaningful interactions? First, always apply respect and open-mindedness. Different cultures need different traits from which we need to learn. Second, awareness of work culture, which is understanding workplace norms and behaviors across cultures, can prevent miscommunication. Lastly, inclusivity encourages conversations that enrich a sense of community.

When talking about globalization, culture cannot be neglected more. Different cultures could be mixed thoroughly in this diverse community. Cultural integration has evolved from the melting pot model, where individuals assimilate and lose their identities. This contrasts the salad bowl model, where diverse cultures can coexist while retaining unique characteristics. For example, Finland, where 89% of its residents are immigrants, has adopted practices to help people integrate into Finnish society while preserving their cultural identities.

Why is it important to learn English?

Learning languages needs an in-depth strategy to achieve success. Dr. Loong shared several tips for us to pursue our lifelong success. First, independent learning requires initiative and perseverance, beginning with spontaneous action and learning motivation. Second, analyze your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This self-assessment helps you to identify what you should focus on and anticipate overcoming potential obstacles.

When setting the goal, use the SMART framework to set clear, actionable goals. It can be specific so that you can define precisely what you want to achieve. It must be measurable to track your progress. Achievable so that the goal is realistic. To be relevant and aligned with your personal aspirations is very important. Lastly, make a timebound to set deadlines for completion.

Manage your time responsibly, and remember to balance academics, extracurriculars, and social life by prioritizing tasks effectively. You can use an urgency and importance matrix to categorize tasks. One of the exciting methods she shared is about creating a "Not-to-Do List" to eliminate distractions. It lists things that are optional for us to do, whether they have no urgency or are beneficial for our task. If your feel boring in a study session, you may implement temptation bundling by combining fewer desirable tasks with enjoyable activities.
When it comes to your learning time – implement a suitable study skill. You can develop techniques to manage academic challenges and boost productivity. Strong study habits lay the foundation for long-term success. Regularly reflect on your progress and growth at the end of the day. Align your reflections with the SMART framework to stay focused and motivated.

Global citizenship is not just a textbook-based concept but about understanding and bridging cultural divides. Dr. Loong believes real-world interactions can reduce misunderstandings and build stronger, more inclusive communities. Let’s work together to create a world where differences become strengths through respect, acceptance, and shared values.