Campus Connection

UWL Chinese Studies students achieve remarkable test results in three semesters

Learning Chinese is no small feat. Classified as a Category IV language by the Foreign Service Institute, Chinese is considered one of the most challenging languages for English speakers to master. Yet students in UW-La Crosse’s Chinese Studies program have defied expectations, demonstrating impressive language skills after just three semesters of study.  

In December, students enrolled in Chinese 201 took the STAMP 4S test, a nationally-recognized language proficiency exam. The results were outstanding: half of the class reached the intermediate mid proficiency level, qualifying them for the prestigious Global Seal of Biliteracy Certificate.  

“This achievement is particularly remarkable given that these students have only been studying Chinese for three semesters,” says Hongying Xu, UWL associate professor of Chinese. “Their rapid progress underscores the effectiveness of our curriculum and the dedication of our students.”  

The Chinese Studies program at UWL offers both a minor and an undergraduate proficiency certificate, alongside a range of other global language programs, including French, Spanish, and Russian, through the Department of Global Cultures and Languages. 

Students in Chinese 201 benefit from a small class size, which fosters a supportive environment where they can comfortably take risks and experiment with the language, even if it means making mistakes. According to Xu, the class dynamic is key to their success. The program’s flipped classroom model — where students complete study reports before coming to class — further enhances their learning experience, allowing for more interactive speaking practice during class time. 

“They are always prepared and ready to participate actively in class,” Xu adds. “They go above and beyond, whether it's emailing me in Chinese, conversing with each other in the language, or seeking out additional opportunities to practice.” 

In addition to learning how to listen, read, and write in Chinese, students in the Chinese Studies minor delve into the cultural, historical, and business aspects of the language. The program also explores the development of Chinese civilization, offering a comprehensive understanding of the language in context.

Chinese is a critical language to master in today’s global landscape. As the world’s second-largest economy and the U.S.'s second-largest trading partner, China plays a pivotal role in international business and diplomacy. Recent graduates of UWL’s Chinese Studies program have already leveraged their language skills in various career paths, from securing teaching positions in China to using Chinese in professional settings at U.S. companies with ties to China. 

 All UWL Chinese courses are taught by a native speaker with a doctoral degree in second language acquisition and language pedagogy, ensuring that students receive expert instruction in both the language and its cultural nuances.