Research on the Internationalized Teaching of Naxi Language from the Perspective of Cross-Cultural Awareness
This paper argues that teaching Naxi to foreign learners cannot succeed as pure language instruction divorced from culture, since Naxi language and Naxi culture are inseparable. Drawing on Humboldt, Sapir, and Chinese scholarship on second-language culture pedagogy, the author, an instructor at Lijiang Teachers College, proposes a cross-cultural-awareness approach that emphasizes bidirectional cultural understanding over rote 'cultural introduction.' Concrete strategies discussed include contrasting learners' native culture with Naxi culture through immersive experience in Lijiang Old Town; using online and multimedia resources such as Dongba pictographic script, Dongba scriptures, dubbed films, and music for self-directed learning; synchronizing classroom study with real-life participation in Naxi festivals such as Spring Festival; and combining thematic discussion of Naxi ecological beliefs with hands-on cultural activities. A 2009 survey found 72% of foreign learners were most drawn to Lijiang's ethnic culture, motivating this culture-centered pedagogy.
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