User Comments - judycarruth
judycarruth
Posted on: How Far?
October 25, 2015, 02:57 PMI've been a Chinesepod subscriber for eight years and appreciate the weekly lessons. Please allow me to make several observations about the Fiona/Guilam approach: The increased pace of delivery, while difficult, makes the transfer to actual conversation easier The omission of the third repetition of dialogue prevents this learner from solidifying the meaning. I appreciate the third repetition even though it's somewhat tedious Fiona's silliness detracts from the learning. It's embarrassing and pointless.
Posted on: Dormitory Drama - Part 3
September 06, 2014, 02:29 PMI have a few requests for Ryan:
Do not give the pinyin spelling. It slows down the dialogue and is unnecessary for most words with intermediate students.
Focus on the words and phrases of the dialogue and give direct translations--no need for three or four synonyms. English speakers know the English word.
No need to bother with extended explanations of the context--the situations are familiar. If you want to comment on some cultural aspect, save it for the outro.
Keep the focus on the language--not on you or your experiences. Give explanations only when needed to translate.
Say the words and phrases in Chinese yourself--even though you aren't a native speaker your pronunciation helps the listener.
Posted on: Sayings vs. Sayings
January 11, 2013, 03:13 PMI love listening to BST, David. My suggestion is for your new host. Please remind him that we American listeners want to hear you, David, discuss the culture and language of China. While we might be impressed by an old China hand from the States, his role is merely to clarify what you impart.
So new host--no more talking over David, telling Bible stories, or giving us your take on the culture at the expense of hearing it from the source. We want to know what David thinks and to hear how he says it. We're not as skilled as you are so give us a little time to translate and then provide clarification where you know we'll need it.
Posted on: First Snow of the Winter
January 13, 2011, 02:19 PMHi John,
I don't know where to leave this so I'll leave it here. I've been a subscriber for three years and I want to compliment you on your efforts to lighten up and appreciate rather than denigrate the Chinese language and culture.
It's been a bit difficult to tolerate the subtext of superiority in your ongoing commentary with Jenny. Her delightful humor and wit were enhanced by Ken. Perhaps your laborious style benefits some learners, but I find it grating.
I greatly enjoyed a lesson with Justin and Jenny. He brought simple, easy explanations to the nuances of Mandarin.
To be frank, Jenny is the big draw for me. She represents the best in language instruction.
I applaud your efforts to limit the condescending expat tone, and encourage you to continue to make the language study as fun and effortless as possible.
Posted on: Drawing the Winning Ticket
January 31, 2016, 04:40 PMI've been a subscriber since 2007, but not sure I can continue with you guys: Overly detailed explanation of context. We all understand a lottery. No extensive English explanation needed. Please break down the dialogue--especially on Intermediate lessons. Loss of the third translation of dialogue. Especially on challenging (for whatever learner), the third repetition clarifies understanding Silliness simply detracts from learning, Fiona. There are many great comedy apps. Your niche is language learning, but you seem more interested I. Showcasing yourself. I see there are quite a few mandarin learning apps. I hope I can stay with CO, but I find myself irritated--not learning as much as I could..