5 Differences Between Eastern and Western Learning Styles

Posted on 2 February 2023 by Mabel Kwong

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There are different styles of learning in Eastern and Western cultures, often very distinct approaches towards learning and education.

Though Eastern and Western countries have contrasting educational systems, it’s not to say one is superior over the other. There is much to be reflected on within both systems, in turn understanding the cultures, beliefs and philosophies that underpin approaches in classrooms and universities.

I went to school in Singapore, Malaysia and Australia, and my learning experience in South-East Asia was vastly different compared to Down Under. My classmates, teachers and face-to-face learning in these countries were like chalk and cheese. More recently, this year I am doing an online writing course which is a whole other learning experience altogether.

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5 Reasons Introverts Dislike Phone Calls

Posted on 10 October 2022 by Mabel Kwong

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If you’re an introvert, maybe you don’t like talking on the phone. Maybe you hate making or receiving calls most of the time.

Maybe you feel anxious hearing the ring or buzz of your phone. Or your heart pounds when you’re dialing someone, scattered mind feverishly wondering what’s to come. Or you go out of your way to avoid making phone calls.

Talking on the phone can be a difficult experience for many introverts. Introverts or those with a reserved personality may feel phone calls are performative experiences as opposed to engaging moments. In general, introverts gain energy through reflective activities and time alone while the ones who are extroverted or outgoing thrive on interactions and chattiness.

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Ways I Disappoint My Asian Parents Again and Again

Posted on 14 July 2022 by Mabel Kwong

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When you come from an Asian family, there are usually strict cultural norms to live up to. On the occasions you don’t, chances are you probably disappoint your Asian parents.

Different Asian parents, and parents in general, have different expectations of their children. But the benchmark tends to be high in Asian households.

Growing up Asian in Australia, my migrant Chinese parents were strict with a traditional Chinese mindset. They wanted me to be top of the class, work a high paying job and be a smiling demure Chinese girl well-liked for her polite mannerisms. For most part I never lived up to these expectations, much to their disappointment.

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11 Ways To Respond To ‘Why Are You So Quiet?’

Posted on 21 April 2022 by Mabel Kwong

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If you’re an introvert or usually not much of a talker, you’ve probably been asked, ‘Why are you so quiet?’. You’ve also probably wondered how to respond to this question.

You might feel this question is annoying, rude or not polite, feel that you’re being judged for being quiet or silent. Or judged for simply not being in the mood to talk in a world that favours extroverts and sees quietness as weird and not normal.

Some ask the question because they are concerned you are too quiet. Or they want to have a conversation with you to get to know you. Whatever the reason, it can be challenging to come up with a response.

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7 Differences Between Asian and Western Beauty Standards

Posted on 10 February 2022 by Mabel Kwong

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Every culture has their own perceptions of beauty. While there are similarities, Asian and Western cultures often have very different beauty standards.

Certain looks are often favoured in Asian cultures. In Western cultures and for many Caucasians, the ‘ideal look’ can be very different.

Having lived in both Asia and Australia, I’ve noticed different people and cultures measure beauty differently. What is attractive and beautiful to someone may not be to someone of another background.

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Why Does It Take So Long To Write A Book?

Posted on 2 December 2021 by Mabel Kwong

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Writing a book takes a lot of time and effort. You don’t write a book overnight, let alone publish one and become an author in a day.

Whether you are writing a novel, self-help guide, travelogue or memoir, it can take months, years or even a lifetime to write a book. Depending on the nature of the narrative, some books take longer than others to write.