No. 58: Ms. Li Qing (Nanjing Normal University, completed AELC in September, 2024)

Hello, everyone!I’m Li Qing, from School of Education Science in Nanjing Normal University, majoring in Comparative education.
Over the years, I have been deeply engaged in various international exchange programs, and I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to participate in the 2023-2024 AEL Course. As with my previous experiences, the most significant takeaway from this program has been the opportunity to engage in conversations with peers from different countries. Through these exchanges, I was able to gain firsthand insights into the educational systems and cultural contexts of their countries, many of which were entirely new to me, and sometimes even differed greatly from what I had read in news reports. These interactions have broadened my understanding of the world, prompting me to question old assumptions and offering fresh perspectives that have enriched my worldview. This experience has reinforced the importance of maintaining an open and critical mindset while continuously expanding my intellectual horizons.
The AEL Course stands out for its professionalism and focus on education and psychology, offering a diverse range of thematic courses. Through the expert lectures and discussions, I encountered new knowledge that not only sparked my interest for further exploration but also provided me with a window into a broader realm of academic inquiry. Furthermore, the in-depth discussions with peers from various disciplines on specialized topics have deepened my understanding of research in my own field and inspired cross-disciplinary insights, which have nourished my academic growth.
I particularly enjoyed the program's random group discussions, which allowed me to interact with students from different universities. I have always found value in human interactions, and the chance to engage with such a diverse group of individuals was a truly unique and rewarding experience. Each person brought their own distinct background and educational journey, making the exchange not just informative but also deeply touching. Through these conversations, I came to see education not as a broad, textbook-defined concept but as a multi-faceted and lived experience, shaped by individual perspectives. These interactions have inspired me to approach educational issues with greater sensitivity and a more nuanced perspective, looking beyond theoretical frameworks to consider the real-world experiences of others. Moreover, the differing educational philosophies and life views shared by my peers have prompted me to reflect on my own educational experiences, providing me with new insights that will continue to influence my personal and professional growth.
In conclusion, the AEL Course has been an enriching journey, offering me both academic and personal growth. It has not only expanded my knowledge but also provided me with the tools to think critically and empathetically about education in a global context. I look forward to continuing my exploration of these insights and applying them to my future endeavors.