Craig CO-1

My first class observation a great experience both in regard to learning and a cross cultural training. The class was a high level speaking course with 5 students in total. The diversity of the class included a Korean, Afghani (not to be confused with the currency), an Egyptian and two Saudi's.

Initially, I was asked to introduce myself to the class- per request to the teacher. They all seemed highly receptive and very welcoming. After that the teacher wrote the speaking prompt on the whiteboard. Topic of conversation was pertaining to partying. Typically, I might not have a whole lot to say. This, was not one of those occurences though. Partying was something I know a good deal about, both within the United States and beyond. So learning about their cultural norms when throwing a good party was quite different from my friend in a Gorilla suit doing a keg stand.

Every student was asked to participate in an open discussion using English. The students, while having the occasional glitch, were very articulate and seemed to have a well developed grasp of the English language. While listening the teacher would write notes down on a notepad in what I would assume was a review of the language and perhaps edits that each person might have stated. Overall, the class participation and flow was brilliant and very well lead.

Following the open discussion came my downfall. Each student was given an “ice breaker” topic and asked to go around the room and discuss with one another in a friendly conversation setting. My topic, interestingly enough was alcohol. So I had to go around asking questions I clearly knew the answer to considering the majority of our students did not participate in drinking. It was incredibly awkward asking the other students “Do you enjoy drinking at a party and what do you think of others if they do not drink” while all along knowing that I had been out the night before. Not to say I felt guilty, but just to point out that my poker face was terrible and I am pretty sure they all knew. So for further reference, in case you didnt know, a westerner in a speaking class asking students about drinking can sometimes be uncomfortable.