Ethnographic Interview: Taiwan Culture Experience
Vntge Jayne Clark Atlanta University Communication Cultural Diversity, Professor Howell March 14, 2011
PRECONCEPTIONS
Culture is the transmission of traditions, customs, norms, beliefs, values and thought patterning across generations (Jandt 2010). The world is home to diverse cultures. In this Ethnographic Interview, I had the opportunity to explore a culture that is distinct from my own. By observing individuals from different cultures and comparing them to my own experiences, I was able to witness the unique differences.
When it comes to determining someone’s culture, their food choices can often offer hints. I interviewed my classmate, Ting Yan Yang, who is from Taiwan. Before the interview, I conducted research on Taiwanese culture to gain more understanding. Since I had no prior knowledge of the culture before this assignment, my goal was to learn a lot from the research and interview. However, I did hold a preconceived belief that Taiwanese culture would have some influence from Chinese culture due to my informant’s appearance.
Peggy (2009) states that my research has verified the fact that the majority of Taiwan’s population is comprised of Han Chinese individuals, either born on mainland China or with ancestral ties there. The thoroughness of my investigation allowed me to gain a clear understanding of Taiwanese culture and visualize it to some extent. Certain aspects of their value systems struck a chord with my own, fostering a sense of connection between us. It should be emphasized that in Taiwan, most people still adhere to traditional values rooted in Confucian ethics; however, these values are now being challenged due to industrialization.
Traditional values such as piety toward parents, ancestor worship, a strong emphasis on education and work, and the importance of “face” remain strong despite societal changes (Ming-teh, 2006).
Before conducting this interview, I needed to choose someone from a different culture who had been in the country for less than 10 years. I immediately thought of a classmate whom I had socialized with and felt comfortable asking for help. I explained that it was a class assignment and gave him details on how he could assist me. I inquired about his time in America, and he shared that he has been here for 8 years.
He readily agreed to be my informant and we set a convenient date and time. I offered to treat him to lunch at Chin Chin II, a local sushi restaurant known for its Taiwanese cuisine. Sushi holds cultural importance in Taiwan (Ming-teh 2006). On the scheduled day, I brought only a notepad and pen. We decided on meeting at 2pm on a Saturday afternoon. Beforehand, I had prepared some essential questions to discuss.
During the interview, I made sure to pose questions that steered clear of ethnocentrism, judgement towards his actions and thoughts, and overly personal queries. My goal was to allow my informant to freely talk about his culture and lifestyle without any limitations. To demonstrate my respect, I arrived at the restaurant before my informant so he wouldn’t have to wait for me. When he arrived, he warmly greeted me with a handshake and a smile.
According to Williams (2007), formal greetings and handshakes are highly significant in Taiwanese culture as the primary means of greeting others. Prior to our research, we placed our food orders. He opted for the Hama chi roll, a type of sushi dish. Normally, I would choose the familiar California roll, but I decided to try the same dish in order to enhance my Taiwan experience. My companion also ordered a cucumber salad, which I had previously tasted and found incredibly delicious. Moreover, he chose lemonade as his beverage of choice, coincidentally a common drink that I usually select when dining out.
While interviewing him, I observed a connection and commonalities between us. Prior to our meal being served, I initiated the conversation by posing some introductory background inquiries. He appeared comfortable throughout the interview and provided candid responses. Our discussion flowed seamlessly, despite his diverse cultural background, as his perspectives and experiences were relatable. It became evident that individuals from various parts of the world can encounter comparable obstacles. The initial query inquired about his motive for relocating to the United States.
I have heard that the United States has the best education and the opportunity to do what I want. Did any of your family members already stay in America before you moved here? My cousin’s whole family. If so, what did they tell you it would be like? They just told me the school is very easy over here in the United States and people are interested in foreigners.
Before moving to North America, did you have an idea of what you thought it would be like? I thought the lifestyle would be interesting because I always have a fantasy about America when I watch American movies. I thought it would be just like that.
Did any type of media, such as movies, television shows, or music, influence your thoughts on how North America would be? Action movies and hip hop music. I love action movies because they show the beauty of the United States. And hip hop music is very popular and represents part of American culture.
How did you arrive in North America? By airplane.
What was your experience like when you first arrived in America? I experienced somewhat of a culture shock. I was surprised by the fact that Americans are friendlier and more welcoming than I thought they would be.
Personally, the one thing I miss the most about my original culture is the food. The taste of the food in the United States just doesn’t compare to what I was accustomed to.
Occasionally, I do miss my homeland, but overall I have grown accustomed to life in the United States.
Unfortunately, yes, I have faced racism and discrimination while in America. (he says aggressively) And it’s a distressing experience.
When I first arrived here, people at school were unwelcoming towards me.
In regard to my original culture, the cuisine is what I particularly yearn for as it surpasses that of the United States. While there are times when homesickness strikes, overall I have adapted well to life in this country. Regrettably though, instances of racism and discrimination have been prevalent during my time here – an intense and troubling ordeal. Upon initial arrival at school, fellow students greeted me with hostility.
In a predominantly white school, I experienced ongoing mockery from my peers due to my dissimilarities. Instances stand out in my memory when individuals would approach me while I was eating and request food from my plate. If I declined, they would circulate rumors about me, resulting in others keeping their distance. 11. What are some distinctive traditions in your culture? This may encompass cuisine, music, dances, rituals, etc. On the lunar Chinese New Year celebration, families come together and prepare a large banquet where all the dishes must be consumed. 12. Were you proficient in English before relocating here?
In the beginning, I struggled with comprehending the English language. If you didn’t have any prior knowledge of English before arriving here, how did you manage to learn it? Was it a difficult process to acquire? To connect with others, I participated in various activities at school. Additionally, due to my natural sociability, I joined the sports team which aided me in making friends. Initially, learning the language proved challenging but as time went on, both understanding and speaking fluently became easier for me.
6 REFERENCES
Jandt, Fred E. (2010). An Introduction to intercultural communications: Identities in a global community. (6th ed). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
Peggy. “Taiwan Travel – Are You Ready To Experience The Magic Of Formosa?” Taiwan Travel – Are You Ready To Experience The Magic Of Formosa? Version 1. Freefind, n. d. Web. 08 Mar. 2011. . Williams , De’Edra. “Taiwan – Taiwanese Business Etiquette, Vital Manners, Cross Cultural Communication, and Geert Hofstede Analysis.” International Business Etiquette, Culture, Manners and Geert Hofstede Cultural Analysis for Global Business Students. cyborlink, n. d. Web. 08 Mar. 2011. . Ming-teh, Lin . “Popular Food Culture in Taiwan.” Government
