About
We are Ami and Penny
Hi! There! We are Nittai Language Classroom, Ami and Penny, undergraduate students passionate about Chinese, Japanese, and English linguistics. If you're interested in these languages, we'd love to connect with you and boost your learning! Ami is a native Japanese speaker, while Penny is a certifitied Mandarin tutor and native speaker. Both of us are majoring in applied linguistics, with a focus on these three languages. If you have any questions or concerns about vocabulary, grammar, or pronunciation in Chinese, Japanese, or English, feel free to leave us a comment below. We’re here to help!
Our motto: Connecting cultures, learning languages, and deepening understanding!
AI Introduction
EP1. Interview with Professor Nakazawa
Professor Nakazawa Kazuaki (中澤一亮), Professor and Director of the International Program at Yuan Ze University’s Department of Foreign Languages and Applied Linguistics. With a Ph.D. in Linguistics from Purdue University, his research spans second-language acquisition, writing pedagogy, and computer‐assisted language learning.
We’ll discuss his journey into linguistics and language education, the challenges and rewards of teaching Japanese and English in Taiwan, and how digital tools are reshaping second language writing and feedback. Also, we’ll explore his strategies for using technology (ICT literacy) and how teachers can cultivate learner autonomy. Stay tuned!
EP2. Interview with Professor Sterling Part1
Professor Sterling Swallow, a full-time Lecturer holding a Master’s degree from the University of Washington in Chinese studies. His teaching areas include English conversation, linguistics, translation, English composition, and public speaking.
We’ll be discussing his path into second-language instruction, key challenges in helping students gain fluency and confidence, and how translational practice informs his teaching of English and Chinese. We also explore practical strategies students can use to improve their public speaking skills, refine their writing, and deepen their understanding of linguistics. A valuable session for anyone passionate about language learning and communication skills.
EP3. Interview_Professor Sterling Part2
In this second half of our conversation with Professor Sterling, Lecturer with a Master’s degree from the University of Washington, we dig deeper into his teaching philosophy and real-world experience. Having taught English conversation, linguistics, translation, English composition, and public speaking, Professor Sterling brings rich insight into how language instruction can be made more effective.
In this episode, we’ll explore how he designs assessments and feedback, how he motivates students to move beyond textbook learning, and how he integrates cultural understanding into teaching. We’ll also hear his thoughts on balancing accuracy vs. fluency, and the role of student self-reflection in language growth.
EP4. Interview_Professor Sterling Part3
In this episode, we continue our deep dive with Professor Sterling, a Lecturer with a Master’s degree from the University of Washington, whose expertise spans English conversation, composition, public speaking, translation, and linguistics.
Part 3 centers on how Professor Sterling evaluates student progress and adjusts his instruction—how feedback is delivered, how errors are addressed, and how lessons evolve in response to learner needs. We also explore his thoughts on peer review, the role of confidence in speaking, and strategies for students to self-monitor and become more autonomous. Whether you’re a learner or teacher, you’ll gain insights into shaping learning for real improvement.
EP5. Interview_Professor Yu Lin Chen
Professor Yulin Chen (陳育琳) is our Professor in the Department of Foreign Languages and Applied Linguistics at Yuan Ze University. She holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Kansas. With a strong academic foundation in educational technology, English teaching, and curriculum design, Professor Chen is dedicated to advancing innovative teaching methods and promoting effective language learning. Her research and teaching emphasize creativity, critical thinking, and student engagement. It is a great honor to interview her for our graduation project and learn from her expertise.