To Promote Science Education

While I participated in C.S. Wu science camp this summer, many professors pointed out the same fact - most Asian students are passive in learning, which is the worst attitude for studying science and other subjects. It may result from ideas in our culture, environment, and our educational system. I would be the last to criticize any policies, but it has been my observation that many teachers here not only discourage students from being curious but also stuff students with exams. Thus even undergraduate students don't usually have the habit of thinking things over or discussing things with each other, unlike what is commonly the case at Wesleyan.

In my opinion, people have to take a positive attitude while studying, whether science or art. Education plays an important role here. It must inspire the students' desires to learn things and help them find their own enthusiasm and strength. If I received the benefits of an interactive education at Wesleyan, I may be able to increase the awareness in our country of the importance of positive learning attitude.

I think it is very important to promote natural science to students in our country. Although our government put a high premium on practical science, I believe the importance of natural science is not to be ignored. There may be some environmental limits to change this situation, but this is an island country, we have a particular need to widen our views and thoughts. A study of nature will provide a ready access to it. With exposure to new ways of thinking about and doing science, I can help introduce the beauty of science to the students.

It seems to me that some scholars here, student and professor alike, are not always generous in sharing their knowledge and accomplishments with others. I can use the perspective and experience attainable in an environment like Wesleyan to foster greater generosity in helping students and sharing information with colleagues in our home country.

I am certain that there are many things, for example, social science is important as well as natural science. But to promote science education is the first thing I want to contribute to our country and my desire of this work is very enthusiastic, for I've received favors from many teachers by my no-spare-efforts and understand deeply that there are still many students who need help urgently. And I would like this dream comes true with the help of the Wesleyan Freeman Asian Scholars Program.

Written by YunJu Tai, 1998/11
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