Learning beyond the Classroom An international study tour to the University of Lleida in Catalonia, Spain was organised for the first cohort of BA (Language Studies) students in the summer of 2012 to give them an invaluable experience in cultural awareness, thereby greatly enhancing the quality and effectiveness of their teaching and learning. The visit was designed to give our students exposure to a culture very different from their own but with some curious socio-cultural and linguistic parallelisms. The participating students had significant exposure to the region’s culture through workshops such as Catalan and Spanish history and literature, identity and language politics, and the Sardana dance and folk music. The students also had the opportunity to attend an inspiring rehearsal session of Castellers (the formation of human towers). The trip included a number of lessons in basic Spanish and Catalan which the students found very useful in their daily interactions with the locals. Quite quickly they were able to order food, ask for directions and buy things communicating in elementary Spanish. The students also visited a local secondary school which gave them a sense of the educational system in Catalonia. The local sightseeing in Lleida as well as a visit to the ancient city of Tarragona provided students with a strong understanding of the history and culture of the region. A guided tour of Barcelona gave students a sense of the remarkable urban design of Barcelona and introduced them to the works of renowned architect Antonio Gaudi, particularly his iconic masterpiece Segrada Familia. The student participants described the visit as eye-opening and rewarding, and organised a sharing session after the trip which they appropriately titled “Redefining Memorable”. The visit was also well received by the University community in Lleida and the group received special mention in the local newspaper. Comments from students: Learning beyond the Classroom: A Visit to Catalonia, Spain There are numerous memorable moments and highlights during the visit. What has remained particularly significant for me is the sharing session with students. Lit Ka Shing The Sardana dance workshop is the most memorable. After mastering the steps, I had the chance to reflect on the experience. The Catalans put most of their efforts, even their whole lives in revitalising the dance, which is a vital asset in the Catalan culture. Liu Chor Hong The trip was wellorganised, meaningful and insightful. Fu Sau Mui I was at the base of the Casteller. Everyone was holding each other tightly and giving support. Instantly, it felt like we were a close team. Through this experience, I got a sense of how powerful trust and harmony are. Cheng Xiaoqian 20 Faculty of Humanities FHM Newsletter Issue1
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