Interview Series - Scholars from European Association of Chinese Teaching

The Fourth International Symposium of the European Association of Chinese Teaching (EACT) was held at the University of Southampton on 21st and 22nd April 2023, organised by the Confucius Institute at the University of Southampton. Taking this opportunity, the Confucius Institute conducted interviews with three keynote speakers, Professor Joël Bellassen, Professor Federico Masini, and Professor Andreas Guder. The interviews were summarised and compiled into a series, which will be published one after another.

[Interview III] Professor Federico Masini

Prof. Federico Masini is the Vice President of the World Association for Chinese Language Teaching. He was once the Vice President of the University of Rome, the Dean of the Oriental Institute of the University of Rome and is currently the Director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Rome. The interview shed light on his unique experiences as a Chinese language learner, teacher, and researcher, showcasing the significance of Chinese language education.

During the interview, Professor Masini shared his journey as a Chinese language learner, acknowledging the difficulties he faced along the way. As a dedicated teacher, Professor Masini emphasised the importance of cultural instruction in his Chinese language classes. Furthermore, as a Chinese language researcher, Professor Masini advocated for interdisciplinary approaches to Chinese studies. He believed that combining the study of Chinese language with other disciplines would provide the world with fresh perspectives on observing and understanding China.

Professor Masini also shared his unique insight of language learning. “Language is not the purpose of learning, but the tool of learning. We should hold it as the key to the gate of the world.” He expressed his best wishes for Chinese learners in the world: Enjoy learning Chinese, enjoy learning language, and go to a wider world.