Why music? Before launching FunChinese, our team observed how music positively shaped learning for children. In one primary school, two groups of students joined after-school activities. They followed the same programme but in a different order. Group A did homework first, then held a singing playtime; Group B started with music, then did homework. After a while, group B children completed their homework almost half as fast as group A. Eventually, Group A decided to start the afternoon activities with music. Our conclusion from this observation is that music can set the rhythm of learning: it energises, relaxes, and refreshes the mind, making learning tasks feel more engaging.
Why Chinese? In Finland, learning Chinese as foreign language can be both exciting and challenging. The Chinese learners show remarkable motivation, persistence, and creativity. However, the resources and innovative methods available for their learning are still limited — a gap this project seeks to address.
The musical activities in FunChinese are designed to be rhythmic, collaborative, and encouraging creation and application. Through these activities, participants will have sufficient and effective practice without feeling tedious with the help of music. The group activities will also bring connections among participants and a safe environment for speaking the foreign language.
The content of the activities is collaboratively planned with the university’s Chinese teachers. The FunChinese team brings the concept and structure of the musical activities, while the content will be planned based on the lesson plans shared by the teachers. The activities will also be adapted to participants’ needs, interests and progress.
To evaluate the effectiveness of FunChinese activities, we will collect both brain and behavioural data.
EEG (electroencephalogram): EEG is a safe, painless, and non-invasive method that records the brain's electrical activity. Participants will wear an EEG cap while watching a silent movie (1 hour including preparation and breaks).
Language test: A short test of basic Chinese listening and pronunciation skills (about 30 minutes).
Musicality test: An online test that can be completed anywhere. Participants tap or move to a beat (up to 1 hour).
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