ESL Courses

This summer, we were fortunate to experience an extraordinary English course in Ottawa, the capital of Canada. This course not only provided us with an opportunity to learn the language but also offered a great chance to deeply understand Canadian culture and cuisine.

As soon as the students stepped into the classroom, they were warmly welcomed by the teachers. The teachers had prepared a variety of ice-breaking games, which helped the students get to know each other better while getting acquainted with the teachers. Then, the teachers introduced us to the history, culture, and traditions of Canada, giving us a deeper understanding of this land. From classic maple syrup to delicious cheese, we learned about various Canadian specialty foods and experienced the unique charm of Canadian culinary culture.

During the course, the teachers enthusiastically engaged in conversations with the students, encouraging them to speak up and express their opinions. By simulating different social scenarios, the students practiced how to use English effectively in real-life situations, greatly improving their speaking skills.

Psychology

This week, our studies have delved into the realms of evolutionary psychology and the intricate dance between genetics and behavior. Through an exploration of Darwin's theory of natural selection, we've come to appreciate the pivotal role that genes play in shaping our behaviors and psychological development. Professor Baird elucidates how the mechanisms of artificial and natural selection enable species to adapt and thrive in their environments, a process that sheds light on the rich tapestry of human behavior.

The foray into genetics has been equally captivating. We've discovered how genes, chromosomes, and mutations influence an individual's cognitive abilities and behavioral traits, while also recognizing the significant impact of environmental factors on personal development. The vulnerability-stress model stands out as a compelling framework, highlighting that the emergence of psychological disorders is a complex interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental pressures.

Professor Baird excels at intertwining theoretical insights with real-world scenarios. She employs case studies of twins and adoption to illustrate the dynamic interplay between genetic and environmental factors in psychological development. These illustrative examples not only deepen our comprehension of psychological concepts but also spark our curiosity about applying this knowledge in practical medical settings.