Re: [LM_NET] LM_NET Digest - 25 Jul 2008 to 26 Jul 2008 (#2008-1038)

[edi campbell <edicampbell@GMAIL.COM>]

While I know this listserv does not exist to debate politics, I do know that
it does intend to provide library professionals with true and accurate
information.  In that regard, I would suggest that if you are interested in
knowing more about the differences and extreme similarities that exist
between Taiwan (The Republic of China) and China (The Peoples Republic of
China) then you might enjoy taking the time to read credible sources such as
Thirsty Ghosts Blog (http://thristyghosts.blogspot.com). The blog is created
by a group of Taiwan-based journalists, photographers and translators,
currently writing for Newsweek, Reuters, Taipei Times, Far Eastern Economic
Review, Asia Times, Kyodo News and other publications.  The China Post and
the Tapei Times are also good English sources, however both are very
political.

Taiwan is NOT a western country.  The current year in Taiwan is 97.  While
they have become a democracy, they like most countries, have adapted it in a
manner that fits their culture.  Their culture remains Chinese.  Few people
play baseball.  Many of them like  Wang Chien-Ming (aka Jimmy Wang) and the
Yankees but they don't have the land to support baseball as a major sport.
Taiwan's values are based in eastern traditions where individuality is non
existant.  In the classroom, I found it impossible to get the teachers to
let me have students read individually.  In newspapers, stories report the
family name of individuals (eg., 'the suspect surnamed Woo') and in
families, children are referred to by their birth order and gender, not
their individual names.  In the classroom, students are know by their class
number, not by their names.

The Taiwanese have quite a history of brutality and oppression that didn't
really end until 1985.  Then, they could have independent presses!  Their
economic growth since then has been phenomenal.  Their political identity,
however is something that they haven't even figured out.  You will more
often here things in Taiwan referred to as 'Chinese' and not 'Taiwanese'.

Want to know more?  I know there are children's books that have been written
by Taiwanese Americans and of course there are books for adults.  Many
states (Indiana, Arkansas, Michigan, Iowa) have Teacher to Taiwan programs
that send certified teachers to Taiwan for one year.  You could probably get
a contract if you contact the Taiwan ministry of Education directly.  This
same program also brings teachers from the Taiwan to the US.  Because
teachers are revered in Chinese culture and because there is such a stress
on learning American English, you will be quite welcome!

Given the popularity of simplified Mandarin, I'm sure there are numerous
exchange programs to and from mainland China, but I am unaware of them.  I
do know that the Laurasian Institute is currently placing Chinese high
school students in the US for the 2008-9 academic year.  They also sponsor
student tours of Japan and China and school media specialists are welcome to
lead groups!!

Take the opportunity to get out of your library, interact in the world
around you so that you can bring useful information to those you serve!


Edi Campbell
Media Director
Arlington High School

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