Technology, Culture, and Human-Centered Practice in Mandarin Education Wen-Chih Chien, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Department of Languages, Cultures, and Literatures, Fo Guang University
Director, Chinese Language Instruction Center
Deputy Executive Director, AI Curriculum Integration Office
I. Rooted in Lanyang, Connected to the World: A Hub for Mandarin Education
Fo Guang University carries the compassionate vision of Venerable Master Hsing Yun—“Cultivating people through education.” With the sincerity of planting a seed, the university draws nourishment from Humanistic Buddhism and moves forward through technological innovation, local engagement, and global collaboration. Together, these efforts aim to build a warm and human-centered Mandarin learning ecosystem. The center’s vision goes beyond teaching language; we strive to become a home away from home for our students, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being in Taiwan. Since 2011, the center has undertaken the Mandarin Elite Training Program for Paraguay, successfully training 420 Paraguayan students to date. This achievement has made our center one of Taiwan’s key institutions for Mandarin education in diplomatic partner countries, building a strong international reputation for Fo Guang University.
II. Innovative Technology and Local Practice: The Team Taiwan Approach to Living Mandarin
Empowered by technology, the center has developed immersive e-learning materials and a digital environment that provides real-time feedback. Interactive web-based activities allow students to simulate everyday conversations in Taiwan, enhancing both engagement and authenticity in learning. Positioning the Lanyang Plain as a living Mandarin classroom—our Team Taiwan approach—our curriculum integrates Yilan’s natural ecology, historical context, and local life. Activities include old-town walking tours, Kavalan cultural exploration, understanding Yilan’s water culture, and hands-on experiences with traditional arts.
III. A Global Learning Community: Small-Class International Integration
Located on the first floor of Fo Guang Shan Lanyang Temple, the Chinese Language Instruction Center offers small-class instruction, significantly improving learning efficiency. To serve Mandarin learners worldwide, the center’s official website is available in eight languages, welcoming every learner who wishes to understand Mandarin and Taiwan. The center enrolls around 60 international students annually, including the Paraguay cohort as well as students from the United States, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, Chile, Argentina, and more. This diverse student body naturally forms a vibrant cross-cultural learning environment.
IV. Conclusion: From the Breeze of Yilan to the Hearts of the World—
Where Language Takes Root in Yilan and Blossoms at Fo Guang Looking ahead, we will continue this journey of light with broader vision and deeper dedication:
Deepening technological integration: Expanding the use of AI-assisted tools and immersive learning software in the classroom.
Strengthening local engagement: Transforming Yilan into a living classroom and developing more place-based learning experiences.
Expanding global partnerships: Building on the success of the Paraguay program to reach more countries.
We sincerely invite friends from all corners of the world to join the Chinese Language Instruction Center at Fo Guang University and embark on a learning journey that blends intellect, emotion, and spiritual enrichment.
