International hosts make digital connections with students
05 March 2021
A group of International Hosts from the local area, who usually provide a temporary home for international students when they study English at Burton and South Derbyshire College, have found new and innovative ways to connect with international students, despite the travel restrictions in place.
While the College has been unable to run its usual on-campus courses for international students, it has introduced online courses for international students wishing to develop their English skills. International Hosts have offered their support to the learners by giving them an opportunity to have real conversations without being in the classroom.
The students from Nippon Bunri University in Japan are taking part in a three week general English course via live online classes that run from 6-8am GMT (3-5pm JST) Monday to Friday. After their class, students have the opportunity to practice what they have learned by taking part in a video call to the International Hosts.
Students and hosts discuss a range of subjects, from simple introductions to discussing their hobbies, pets, favourite foods and favourite visitor attractions. They also take part in games designed to develop their English language skills in a fun way.
The students are mainly Japanese, with a small number of Korean students studying at Nippon Bunri. They are currently working to an intermediate level and looking to progress their skills further by taking part in conversations with English speaking people.
Saya Takada, Nippon Bunri University student said: "It’s been an amazing experience for me. The group discussion is fun because I want to be able to express my ideas in English. The host families are very kind and warm. I enjoy talking to them directly. I hope that this will become a regular programme because it will bring all of us closer, and we can practice English in a real situation.”
International Hosts, Andrew and Claire Kinnard commented: “We have been part of the BSDC international student hosting programme for several years. We are missing the enjoyment of hosting students due to the Covid restrictions, so we are delighted to be able to participate in some 'virtual hosting' by interacting with students again over Zoom, to help with their English conversation. Thank you BSDC for helping involve us again.”
Fellow International Host, Susan French said: “It was so lovely to be interacting with the students again - also the college team and the other hosts! It’s nice to feel part of something other than our own family/friendship bubbles.”
Nick French added: “It’s great fun! Highlights so far have been a girl surprising us with her white hamster and Riku serenading us!”