by Anne Elizabeth Sheu
Have you noticed a distinct change of atmosphere in our department lately? The difference is hard to miss, and as bracing as a breath of fresh air blowing through a stuffy compartment. Among other things, innovative policies, restructured curriculums, and more effective tutorial systems are being introduced into the department. All this is made possible by the perseverance and determination of a special person. With the utmost enthusiasm, the Department of Foreign Languages and Literature welcomes a newly elected Chair, Professor Han-liang Chang. The tightly-shut door of the DFLL Chair’ office on the first floor of Liberal Arts Building, just two doors down from the department office, is henceforth replaced by a mere screen. When asked if this is meant to encourage DFLL members to drop in for a friendly chat and a cup of his fragrant flower herbal tea, Professor Chang hastens in his assurance, “I receive my colleagues and students on a daily basis. Anyone can walk right in, with or without an appointment.” This seems to typify the stimulating new policy of accessibility and open-mindedness of the department. Perhaps the one of the most unique things about Professor Chang is his educational background. “I’m very proud to say that I was almost exclusively locally trained,” he states. Both his undergraduate and graduate Alma Mater is NTU, which may seem surprising, given the inclination of most students to go abroad the first chance they have. Only upon receiving his doctoral degree in comparative literature did Professor Chang go on to complete his postgraduate studies at John Hopkins University. Knowledgeable in various fields of study, Professor Chang has also taught at the graduate level in Prague, Athens, Manchester, and the U.S. These experiences contribute to his broad scope and perspective. Overflowing with ideas and plans, Professor Chang points out, “since I decided to run for the Chair, [it shows] I really want to do something constructive for the department.” And already, the mills of reformation have started grinding out results. New policies such as the simplifying of the administrative system, integrating course taking and the writing of dissertations for graduate students, and restructured curriculums and better coordination among instructors ensure that courses are taught much more effectively. Moreover, there will be changes in the present tutorial system (????). In order to provide proper guidance to students regarding community life on campus and coping with academic pressures, the new system would call for advisors to meet their advisees on a more frequent basis. Although delighted with the overall aptitude of DFLL students, there are still a few improvements many professors would like to see. Professor Chang remarks pensively, “students in other countries raise a lot of questions but not in Taiwan. Their academic performance is above average, but they should be successful as social beings as well.” “Every year there are one hundred and twenty thousand applicants in the Joint College Entrance Examination and for most of them, their first choice is NTU. Our students are very good in terms of their background and I’m very proud of them. But perhaps students should show more concern for others and what others think. This unconcern for others may be true not only of our students, but also the entire younger generation. Am I talking as if I were a very old man?” Professor Chang laughs. When asked if he had any advice for undergraduate students upon their impending graduation, Professor Chang takes a minute to ponder and replies seriously, “It all depends on individuals. [For students who want] to do advanced studies, they have two options: one is going abroad and the other is studying here in Taiwan, just as I did. The DFLL has a fairly good MA program and I would encourage our best students to stay here and study for at least two or three years. After that, they can consider doing a higher degree of doctoral study abroad. It really depends on what you want to study; if what you want to study isn’t available here, then go abroad, by all means.” “As for what I recommend about our MA program, we have a strong program in English and American literature studies. Our faculty is impressive and we have specialists in almost all fields; therefore, we can provide good academic advice to ensure students’ progress.” However, Professor Chang indicates that there are also disadvantages of graduate study in Taiwan. For instance, even part time work is prohibited in most schools abroad. But in the more liberal society of Taiwan, graduate students are rarely full-time students, the fact of which could hinder their studies. “Students must be very responsible persons for our graduate program,” he emphasizes. A good command of language is the basis of all study, Professor Chang asserts. He advises students to learn English well, which would, in turn, greatly facilitate studies in whatever field they wish to pursue. More importantly, students should gain as much exposure as possible to general education, which trains us on how to use our minds, how to argue, and how to exercise good reasoning. For this, Professor Chang strongly suggests students to take a course in logic, as critical analytical thinking is an invaluable asset not only for graduate school, but also beyond. Besides restructured courses and better tutorial systems, another good piece of news for DFLL students can be found in Professor Chang’s positive statement, “I would like to support all student activities. If you feel the need of more scholarships or funding for speech or writing contests, all you have to do is write a proposal; if it is feasible, I will contact our alumni and establish it. This department has limited financial resources, but we can make good use of them to encourage students and award them for their special achievements. Are you exhilarated by your new prospects in the DFLL? If you are all fired up with excitement, don’t hesitate to take advantage of the sign on the Chairman’s office door, Shalom, which means, “welcome” in Hebrew. Professor Chang will generously make time for you amidst his demanding schedule; he will be more than happy to answer any questions you have and consider any constructive suggestions or comments! Again, all of us in the department express a hearty welcome to our new Chair and wish him the very best of luck in his endeavors! a
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The Taida Student Journal has been active since 1995 with an ever-changing roster of student journalists at NTU. Click the above link to read about the authors Archives
May 2024
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