David Hennessy is a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient from Deakin University. David undertook the Virtual Indonesian Language Short Course in January-February 2022.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ILSC?
I want to improve my language ability to further my career and build relationships with my community in Indonesia.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If yes, why do you think the NCP is an important initiative? The NCP is a signature initiative of the Australian Government which aims to lift knowledge of the Indo-Pacific in Australia by supporting Australian undergraduates on experiences such as the Virtual Indonesian Language Short Course
Yes. I believe Australian understanding of Indonesian culture is woefully inadequate, and these grants are a great way to build cultural understanding and cultivate cross-cultural partnerships.
Q: What did you find to be the most rewarding part of this virtual experience?
The opportunity to speak with a diverse range of Indonesian people.
Q: What do you find to be the most challenging about the ILSC?
Conducting interviews entirely in Indonesian!
Q: Have you had previous experience learning Indonesian in Australia? If yes, how different was the Virtual ILSC to your previous experiences?
I have, but never in an immersive environment such as this. The context made a big difference, as did being the only student in my class!
Q: Were you able to learn about the Indonesian culture from this virtual program? If yes, how was this achieved?
I was, specifically central Javanese culture. This was achieved through discussion about Salatiga and with people living in Salatiga.
Q: What have you enjoyed most about the course?
The one-on-one learning experiences.
Q: How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the ILSC influence your future career or study?
I will be working in an Indonesian school after this course, and hope that my language skills can turn this position into a career.
Q: Would you recommend this virtual program to your friends?
Yes, but if they’re Deakin students I suggest they make very specific enquiries into the fee structure on the Deakin side.
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase:
Nakal.
Q: Describe your experience of the Virtual ILSC in three words:
Intense, immersive, engaging