【Article by International College of Innovation】

Organized by the Innovation International College USR Project in collaboration with Shijian Experimental Elementary School, the “International Education Week” event was held on March 31 at Shijian Elementary School in Taipei’s Wenshan District. Through interactive, play-based activities, the initiative aimed to broaden students’ global perspectives and enhance their cultural literacy.

The event brought together international students from National Chengchi University, as well as students from other universities, representing diverse nationalities including Indonesia, the United States, Vietnam, Canada, Paraguay, Hungary, Haiti, and Mexico. By introducing their childhood games, participants created an engaging platform for cultural exchange with local elementary school students. Children showed strong enthusiasm, actively participating in activities and interacting with international students, while gaining exposure to new cultural perspectives.

Through these games, students not only learned about different cultures but also developed openness and mutual understanding through direct communication. The event allowed children to experience a broader world beyond their everyday environment.

At the Vietnamese classroom, Nguyen Minh Huyen, Trinh Kim Nguyen, and Doan Manh Hung introduced Ô ăn quan (Mancala), a traditional game with historical significance. Doan Manh Hung explained, “When I first came to Taiwan, my mission was to share my culture with others… This activity is a great opportunity to give children a cultural lesson through traditional games.” They also described the meaning behind the game: “It represents fairness—we take from the rich and give to the poor.” To prepare for the activity, they collected and cleaned stones from the NCCU campus to use as game materials with the children, demonstrating their dedication. They added that the stones would be returned to the campus after the event.

From Hungary, Reka Koleszar led a Kahoot quiz and “Freeze Dance” activity, encouraging students to move and interact through play. Explaining her choice of activity, she said, “I wanted something that’s active and also helps them understand our culture more.” Reflecting on her experience, she also expressed surprise at students’ familiarity with the Rubik’s Cube, pointing out that it is a Hungarian invention. She observed that “by the end, they became more open,” with some even returning after class to try the cube again.

Paraguayan participants Luana Vallejos and Ingrid Pereira introduced “El Solito,” a rhythmic dance game based on a six-beat pattern. Through guided counting and clapping, students learned to coordinate movements while experiencing Paraguayan culture through rhythm and interaction. They said it was their first time teaching this dance to local students, and they were impressed by the strong interest shown by the students. In addition, they used a large world map to show students where Paraguay is located, drawing strong curiosity from the children. Students gathered around the map and eagerly asked questions about the country.

From Indonesia, Vivian Aurelia Yap and Jocelyn Odelia Salim presented “Gobak Sodor,” a team-based crossing game. Vivian explained, “One group is the guard, and the other tries to cross without being caught… if they get caught, they have to start again.” Reflecting on the activity, she noted, “It was fun… students were interested in cultural exchange,” although some younger participants occasionally struggled to follow the rules. With support from teachers, communication remained smooth throughout the activity.

Haitian participants Sherley Laibhen and Adneissa Christy introduced hopscotch, a classic childhood game. Christy shared her motivation: “I like working with kids… I thought it would be fun to play with them.” She also highlighted that while the game is traditional, it continues to evolve, with even adult versions emerging. After the session, she described the children as “really energetic,” noting that their enthusiasm made the experience especially enjoyable.

In addition to the featured activities, a variety of games prepared by international volunteers further enriched the event. Canadian participant Mark Spitzer played the Leg Wrestling game with students, while Jennifer Spinak led students in playing the American game “Big Wind Blows.” Paraguayan participant Arantxa Gamarra introduced “Carrera Vosa,” a sack race that encouraged active participation, and Mexican participants Brenda González Salinas and María Guadalupe Robles presented “Lotería,” a Mexican bingo game. Vietnamese participants Chen Hongmei and Liang Ruan Jiaxin also introduced the “Rabbit Game,” an action-based mimicry game in which students followed verbal instructions rather than physical demonstrations, encouraging concentration and quick thinking. These diverse activities provided students with more opportunities to experience different cultures through play.

Throughout the event, children displayed strong curiosity and respect toward different cultures. They eagerly participated in games, asked questions about participants’ home countries, and engaged in lively interactions. Laughter filled the classrooms as students explored new forms of play and cultural expression. Such initiatives not only enhance students’ global awareness but also create meaningful opportunities for mutual exchange between local and international communities. By transforming cultural learning into interactive experiences, the event successfully demonstrated how play can serve as a universal language that connects people across borders.