大三出國、全英語課程 - 國際視野 : 淡江大學大三出國通報及學分採認系統

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2023大三出國輔導通報系統 - 留學心得報告[編輯]

政經 409820247 　杜芷柔　　留學學校：查爾斯大學(捷克)-限政經系

(一)基本資料

1. Studied at the Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic. 2. Duration of study abroad: September 19, 2023, to June 9, 2024. 3. Course Summary: - In the first semester, I took courses in Czech language, Introduction to Czech Republic and Culture Studies, and Global Ethics. However, I found that the Global Ethics course did not meet my expectations, so I ended up completing only three courses: Czech language, Introduction to Czech Republic and Culture Studies. - In the second semester, I studied courses on Asia-Pacific Security Issues, Application of Statistical Software, United States Congressional System, and Evolutionary History of International Relations.(99字)

(二)課程學習

【照片說明：Course Data Analysis and Mapping】

My favorite course is Data Analysis and Mapping, taught by Professor Lukáš Hájek. This course primarily focuses on how to use the statistical software R. Attendance is not mandatory, and the class meets every two weeks for three hours, totaling six sessions per semester. Although it is a master's level course, some of the statistical knowledge covered, such as regression analysis, is what I learned in the first-year statistics course at Tamkang University (depending on the course progress). One of the biggest challenges I found was how to write code efficiently and intelligently. While R code can be difficult to remember, the professor mentioned that he often needs to look up tutorials online to complete tasks, which reassured me a lot during my learning process. I greatly appreciate the professor's teaching style. One major advantage of the small class size is that if any software-related issues arise during the class, the professor will immediately come to assist with technical problems. This results in very high learning efficiency, and students can confidently ask questions. Assignments are done in groups of 2-3 students, working together to solve the problems posed by the professor while reviewing class content to deepen their understanding. The final paper is an individual project where students use what they've learned in class to choose an interesting topic (which can be related to Taiwan) and conduct quantitative research using two different sets of statistical data. I highly recommend this course, especially for students who enjoy quantitative research. Due to an issue with the course registration system, I was unable to register for the course. Since I had already fulfilled my credit requirements, I did not make an extra effort to add it. Before the semester began, I emailed the professor to inquire about auditing the course. Any junior or senior students interested in this course may need to consult with the coordinator at the international office to see if manual registration is possible. (325字)

(三)生活環境

【照片說明：Main building of FSV (Faculty of Social Sciences)】

Charles University is renowned as one of the oldest and largest universities in the world, founded by Emperor Charles IV of the Holy Roman Empire in 1348. As the premier academic institution in the Czech Republic, it carries a long history and deep academic tradition. Unlike other universities, Charles University does not have a centralized campus; its buildings are scattered throughout the city. Although this dispersion posed challenges in scheduling my classes, it also provided me with the opportunity to traverse the entire city, immersing myself in the charm and allure of Prague. I live in Kolej Hvězda, Block 3. The location of our dormitory is both quiet and convenient. There is a school cafeteria nearby, and the dormitory itself offers vending machines, printing machines, as well as a coffee bar combo, which is a great place to make friends. There is often small parties, I had meet many of the residents there and it is a good place to chat and talk. The dormitory also has free study rooms, a quiet space for studying or group discussions, is the best facilities in my opinion. Moreover, the front desk also provides cleaning tools such as brooms, mops, and vacuum cleaners so that we can clean the room ourselves. The room is equipped with heating, Internet, and small refrigerator. Additionally, public laundry facilities are convenient, offering washers and dryers at reasonable prices. Basically, the equipment in the dormitory can meet the needs. The surroundings are also convenient, with drug stores and supermarkets within a 10-minute walk. In terms of transportation, Vypich (bus/tram station) and Petřiny (metro station) are within walking distance. If you think of international offices, there are direct trams and subway stations near the dorm.(287字)

(四)自我成長

【照片說明：Antonella with GPE students <3】

I am very fortunate to have an exceptionally kind Exchange Coordinator, Antonella, at the International Office of Charles University. We unanimously agree that Antonella is like our mother in the Czech Republic, and this is not an exaggeration. From the dormitories to the courses and extracurricular activities, she is always there, warmly interacting with the students. One of my most memorable experiences was when she invited us to the International Office during Christmas. We shared hot tea, gingerbread, and talked about our experiences during the winter semester. She also introduced us to other international students, and we had a really nice and international conversation. This gesture was very heartwarming to me because she went above and beyond her duties to care for us and ensure everything was going well for us students. Whenever we encountered any difficulties in our daily lives, Antonella would promptly help us resolve them, which made my life in Prague very smooth. Regarding cultural shock, during the first few months in Prague, I found it hard to get used to the indifference of Czech people. However, I eventually came to understand this cultural difference, realizing that not everyone approaches their work with the same enthusiasm as service workers in Taiwan. On the other hand, cars here are more "pedestrian-friendly" compared to Taiwan. Just standing at the roadside, regardless of whether the light is red or not, cars will stop to let pedestrians cross. I think I will need to readjust to Taiwanese traffic once I return, as I have become somewhat spoiled by the Czech drivers :)(260字)

(五)大三出國建議

To prospective students interested in studying at Charles University: Prague is a city rich in art and history, with convenient and safe transportation. I've been here for almost a year, and each time I walk into the Old Town, I am still amazed by the beauty of this city. Charles University has a diverse international student body, with students from all over the world joining you in class each semester. The International Office at the Faculty of Social Sciences not only has very friendly staff but also frequently organizes extracurricular activities and parties for exchange students. Through these events, I have made many friends with whom I get along well. I am delighted that, due to the good relationship between GPE and the Faculty of Social Sciences at Charles University, our students have the benefit of free Czech language courses. Knowing some basic Czech greatly helps with living in the Czech Republic! Many locals are happy when I speak some Czech and are more willing to engage in conversation. When traveling to neighboring countries, knowing a bit of Czech also makes it easier to pick up local languages because they are Slavic languages. For example, when I traveled to Slovakia and Poland, I quickly got the hang of the local languages due to their similarities with Czech! Lastly, on the orientation day, the alumni told us that we should never back down or be afraid to express our opinions in class or socialize just because we think our English is not good enough. I completely agree with this. Most of the exchange students here are not native English speakers, so no one will refuse to talk to you because of your English. Therefore, I encourage all prospective students to bravely take the first step to speak. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become, and your English will also improve. By taking that courageous first step, you will gain more than you can imagine! (326字)

(六)其他

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資料更新時間：12月01日 10:30

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