Staff Feature Interview: Get to know Chinese HOD Carolyn Zhang

For our next staff feature interview, we had the pleasure of speaking with Carolyn, our Chinese Head of Department at Geniebook. In this short Q&A session, she shares insights into her work, her personal philosophy on education, and how she unwinds in her free time. Read on!

Q: Thank you for joining us today, Carolyn! To start, could you share your personal philosophy on education? Additionally, what were you like as a student?

Education, in my view, extends beyond the mere transmission of knowledge; it's about igniting curiosity and fostering critical thinking. I believe learning should be engaging, practical, and directly applicable to real-life situations. As a student, I was inherently curious, eager to explore various subjects, and always keen to ask questions. I enjoyed drawing connections between classroom lessons and the real world.

Q: How acquainted are you with AI and technology? Do they play a significant role in your personal life?

I'm quite familiar with AI and technology, especially within the educational sphere. AI-driven learning platforms, personalised learning pathways, and intelligent assessment tools have significantly enriched the learning experience. Personally, I utilise AI-powered tools for research, content creation, and language learning. I also stay updated on the latest AI developments to understand how they can further enhance education.

Q: Could you tell us about your career prior to joining Geniebook?

Before joining Geniebook, I amassed extensive experience in teaching and curriculum development. I've worked in traditional classroom settings and digital education platforms, focusing on designing interactive learning materials. My background in educational psychology has been instrumental in understanding effective learning processes and supporting students' educational journeys.

Q: What are your thoughts on working in the EdTech industry?

Working in EdTech is incredibly exhilarating as it merges my passion for teaching with technological advancements. The capacity to personalise education, make learning more engaging, and analyse student progress through data is truly transformative. I find it fulfilling to contribute to an environment where technology amplifies learning outcomes.

Q: What is your role at Geniebook, and what are your responsibilities?

At Geniebook, I engage in curriculum design, content development, and teacher training. My responsibilities include creating engaging and effective learning materials, supporting teachers with innovative instructional strategies, and ensuring our educational programs align with students' needs.

Q: How does teaching at Geniebook differ from your previous experiences?

Teaching at Geniebook is dynamic and technology-centric. Unlike traditional classroom settings with standardised lessons, we leverage AI to tailor learning experiences for each student. Real-time data analysis enables us to identify students' strengths and areas for improvement. facilitating targeted support. Our interactive, digital-first approach enhances both engagement and effectiveness in learning.

Q: In your opinion, how does the integration of technology and education benefit students?

The fusion of technology and education renders learning more accessible, engaging, and efficient. AI-powered platforms allow students to learn at their own pace, receive immediate feedback, and concentrate on areas needing improvement. Gamification elements boost motivation, while data analytics enable educators to customise their teaching to meet individual student needs.

What do you enjoy most about your role at Geniebook? Do you have any personal objectives you'd like to achieve here?

I take great pleasure in positively impacting students' learning experiences through innovative methods. My objectives include continually refining digital learning strategies, developing more engaging educational content, and contributing to making learning both enjoyable and effective for students.

Q: Many view proficiency in languages like Chinese as a gateway to better career opportunities and cross-cultural communication. What is an underrated benefit of learning Chinese that might encourage people to take it more seriously?

Beyond career prospects and communication advantages, learning Chinese enhances cognitive abilities such as memory, problem-solving, and multitasking skills. It also offers access to a rich cultural heritage, broadens global perspectives, and fosters adaptability in our increasingly interconnected world.

Q: On a personal note, what are your interests? Are you inclined towards learning new things or technology in general?

I have a passion for food and fitness, and I often share my baked creations with colleagues, especially those in the English Language department at Geniebook. To balance out the extra calories, I regularly attend fitness sessions like Body Attack and Body Combat.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading, painting, travelling, and playing tennis. I have a deep interest in psychology and understanding the workings of the mind. I love exploring new ideas, whether in education, technology, or personal development. I firmly believe that lifelong learning is essential for growth, and I'm always open to new experiences and knowledge.

Thank you so much for your time, Carolyn!