Teaching chinese as a foreign language: reading and writing challenges

Abstract

Despite the considerable increase of Chinese language programmes in Italian higher education systems over the last decades, empirical studies about teaching practice and acquisition proces ses in secondary education are still far from being exhaustive. We explored two web platforms able to promote classroom dynamics and stimulate visual memory, in order to identify the impact of digital learning devices on Chinese FL reading and writing performances. Quizlet is designed to edit bilingual word lists for virtual classes, giving students the chance to practise at school or at home. Kahoot, instead, allows teachers to create multiple-choice quizzes to be played in class with smartphones. The research was conducted on two high school classes of Chinese learners, one adopting traditional learning techniques, the other practising on digital platforms. Our study has shown that a systematic exposure to digital learning devices in classroom environment may increase reading skills and lexical competence by 30%, compared to more conventional teaching practices.