The 2026 Chinese Language and Culture Winter Camp at Shanghai International Studies University came to a close on February 6, bringing together nearly 140 students from 20 countries. Over the course of less than a month, participants sharpened their Mandarin skills, deepened their understanding of Chinese culture, and formed lasting friendships along the way.

It was the largest winter camp the university has hosted to date. This year, the curriculum was fully revamped to include AI-assisted classrooms, integrated theory and practice, and interactive, task-based learning. The goal: to immerse students in Chinese language and real-world contexts, strengthening both their linguistic ability and their knowledge of contemporary China.

From lively classroom discussions to wholehearted participation in cultural activities, every small step of progress became part of the season’s warmest memories.

(Students holding a group discussion in Chinese class)

(Taking notes intently during a classroom session)

(Hand made New Year dumplings)

(Gathering in the cafeteria after a dumpling-making session)

(Learning the art of fan dancing with local Shanghai grandmothers at Lu Xun Park — Class 2, Grade 7)

(You Xueyin, Class 1 Grade 10, sharing her Mandarin learning journey with a reporter from Shanghai TV)

(Browsing souvenirs on the ancient streets of Zhujiajiao)

(Identifying herbs by scent — Class 1, Grade 8)

(Proudly displaying paper-cut creations — Class 3, Grade 7)

(Students from Grades 7 and 8 in Zhujiajiao)

(Winter camp group photo at the Zhujiajiao visitor center)

 

Mastering and teaching Chinese requires both a firm grounding in the linguistic and cultural tradition and a bold embrace of new tools and ideas. In recent years, the university has intensified its curriculum reform, exploring deeper integration of AI into classroom instruction to build a smarter, more personalized model for international Chinese language education.

In class, instructors now use AI to enrich teaching materials with diverse, real-life language examples. Simulated conversational scenarios help students identify and correct communication missteps in real time—making learning more responsive and effective. Outside the classroom, students use AI tools to fine-tune pronunciation, generate personalized study plans, and conduct independent research on contemporary social topics in China. Through these immersive experiences, their command of the language continues to sharpen.

This winter camp also marked a key step in the university’s “dual classroom” reform initiative. The first classroom—focused on foundational knowledge—centers on core vocabulary and grammar. The second, practice-oriented classroom is designed to build communicative competence and cross-cultural adaptability. The integration of the two is not a simple layering of formats, but a deeper shift in educational philosophy: one that takes students beyond campus, connects knowing with doing, and brings them closer to the realities and rhythms of contemporary China. Through field study and social engagement, they develop a more nuanced, globally informed perspective.

Moving forward, the university plans to further expand its dual-classroom and AI-enhanced teaching models, creating more SISU Chinese language classrooms where deep learning meets real-world application. The goal remains clear: to cultivate globally minded, Chinese-proficient talents with solid disciplinary grounding and cultural understanding. SISU welcomes students from around the world. For new possibilities in life, it begins here.

 

Source: Study at SISU