On March 20, 2024, the Music Department organized a workshop in CC320, featuring presentations by Mr. Jonathan James CORBETT and Ms. Elyse Zishan PENG from the English Language Centre (ELC). The event aimed to showcase the extensive support services provided by ELC, introduce the tailored support program for language learning known as the Student English Support Program (SESP), facilitate hands-on experience of SESP activities, and offer valuable writing tips and self-improvement strategies.

This workshop, meticulously crafted for music major students, aims to empower them at various stages of their academic journey. The event garnered a full house attendance.

                 Full house attendance at the ELC Workshop.

Mr. Jonathan James CORBETT delivered a brief introduction to SELH support services, while Ms. Elyse PENG focused on academic writing skills for university-level English, distinguishing between general English writing and academic English writing. In response to student needs, ELC established the Student English Support Program (SESP), aimed at assisting students with lower English proficiency to enhance their language skills and academic confidence. Students participating in this program engage in academic English skill practice in an interactive learning environment and communicate with ELC teachers in groups. The practical activities segment of SESP conducted during the event was particularly lively. Furthermore, ELC introduced a dedicated English-Speaking Corner exclusively for music major students, encouraging them to confidently speak English. Following the conclusion of the event, many students enthusiastically signed up for activities, demonstrating their strong desire to improve their English proficiency.

              Vibrant Atmosphere: Students Engage in Lively SESP Practical Activities.

The Music Department organized this seminar with the aim of continuing a long-term, cooperative relationship with the English Language Centre, guiding, and encouraging music students to make full use of the valuable English learning resources provided by ELC. We plan to collaborate with English Language Centre to transform the ELC Workshop into a series of activities and organize them regularly according to the needs of music major students. The objective of this event is to enhance the English language literacy of music students. UIC has always been committed to cultivating students with an international perspective, enabling them to ground themselves in traditional Chinese culture while possessing a cross-cultural mindset. Insufficient English proficiency could severely impact the academic performance and future development of music students.

This Workshop not only helped students understand the importance of English learning but fostered cooperation between the Music Department and English Language Centre, providing music students with more opportunities for English learning and growth. We look forward to further cooperation with ELC in the future, bringing more support and assistance to our students.