Language Learning Journal #1
David Kim
30262888
david.kim123@richmond.edu
In the beginning, I planned out my learning plan within the course SDLC 105. Since I am confident in basic listening, speaking, reading, and speaking, I wanted to study advanced modern Korean literature, especially poems. So I selected two poems each for three topics and decided to write my own poems too. However, after meeting my language partners, I acknowledged that I have set my plan in a narrow-minded and limited way.
On January 28, Somyung took me and Rachel outside of the campus to refresh our minds and talk about our goals and activities that we want to accomplish throughout the semester. As I talked about my passion for modern Korean poetry, Somyung positively approved my plan and goals. She said I am almost the first person to study poetry. However, she advised that repeated topics and studies could result in mastering a particular area, but might cause negative effects. I could get bored as the semester goes on. In addition, I would only learn in a narrow and limited way. To prevent all of these outcomes, she recommended more learning and activities from other areas. That way, I could experience other aspects of Korean culture, not only surface academics.
The first way of studying Korean and experiencing the culture that Somyung recommended was through Korean music songs. Somyung and I are both participating in the Worship team at Richmond Central Presbyterian Church. I play the piano and she plays the bass for worship. There are other people who play instruments or sing in SDLC 110. Somyung bring up the idea of performing Korean songs altogether in a band form. Even though I listen, play, and make music a lot, I did not have the idea of learning the culture through their music. As a musician myself, I am looking forward to starting and working on this project type of learning.
The second way of studying Korean and experiencing the culture that Somyung recommended was through Bible in Korean. Even though I am a pastor kid, I am not used to reading Bible on my own. Like the first way, the Korean Bible was a way of learning that I never thought of. Since I interact with many people who go to Church, I think this way will help me to have better communication with them.
The last piece of advice that my language partners told me is that interacting with other learners and mentors was the most effective way of getting better at language and learning culture. If possible, we are planning to have a big meeting with all who are studying Korean. By communicating with new people in Korean, I will improve my communication skills and abilities.
\Before I met my language partners, I was not sure about my plan and which way of approaching the Korean language and culture. After I talked with Somyug and Rachel, I am getting excited to experience Korean culture more deeply with great people. I already feel more comfortable and prepared. I can not wait to study and learn the language and culture.
Comments