`A lecturer can think he or she gives an excellent class with part lecture, part project work and part discussion, but it's a different experience for an Asian,' says Haijkens. `They might think, discussion? Does the lecturer actually know what he or she is talking about? For Asians, the lecturer is omniscient. Asians are passive during lectures and very polite; they will never ask the lecturer a question, thinking it is rude to ask. It would indicate that the lecturer had not correctly explained something and who are they to doubt such an authority? Moreover, Asians never say no. The answer to each question is `yes, yes, yes.' As a lecturer, you are not reaching these students.'
Enough reason for an increase in awareness, thought Haijkens, so she developed a course, `How to Handle International Students,' which she also teaches. `I have been a teacher so I have a lot of experience with international students.' This course is intended for lecturers, administrative and support staff. The main goal for teachers is to educate. For example, project work is not suitable for everyone. Dutch people are really sympathizing with the underdog, everyone has to make it. In American and Asian cultures, personal achievements are important. Good grades count and grade lists need to be published with a name, not anonymous as we do. A bad grade is a reason for shame in some countries and thus a terrible burden for students. Imagine that your whole family has saved money to help you study abroad. It can be dramatic to fail. Things like `Cheer up, better luck next time' or `try something else instead' are not helpful at all.
According to Haijkens, it is good to realize that your worldview is defined by your culture. `The Dutch are renowned for their directness and honesty. In the Belgium culture, this straight-forwardness is unheard of and rude. The Dutch encourage people to stand up for themselves; they think this type of behavior is good. Likewise, the Germans are very punctual; an agreement is an agreement. They are also more formal. In the Netherlands, a lecturer is often addressed using his first name. In Germany it's usually Frau or Herr. Germany is more masculine and the Netherlands more feminine.'
Haijkens wants to stimulate participants to look closely at their own educational program. `Lecturers often wonder whether they have to adapt themselves or not. I think education needs to be effective, it has to reach students. With that in mind, it helps to consider other people's feelings. When you're a lecturer, you can make the effort to communicate in a subtle way.'
The course `How to Handle International Students' will be held for lecturers on the following Wednesdays: October 10, 17 and 31, from 13:30 to 17:00 pm. For administrative and support staff the course will follow in November. Enrol before October 4 via [email protected]
