I would have to agree with the student you talked to in the library. I personally learn better when I am engaged with the teacher and am able to ask questions when I do not understand something, or if I think the teacher has made a mistake ( those are the best ones, unless of course, your wrong ). I also believe class participation is key in classes here in America. When the teacher goes around the room asking students for answers, it is not to embarrass students that do not know the answers, or do not like talking in class, but it is to become more engaged with the teacher. The best teachers I’ve had here at VCU are one’s that I can talk to during and after class. It helps build a relationship with the professor, which in turn, makes getting answers to your questions that much easier. It was interesting to find out, that Asian students mainly remain quiet during class with little or no participation. I believe they are really missing out on the connections you can make with your mentor or professor. Overall, connecting with the teacher, I believe, is a key way to make the learning process more manageable.

On Wednesday, I met an Asian-American student in the library. I asked him about the communication in class in the US culture. He said that American are usually loud. They like to talk aloud and have their answers in the class. Also, he said that in the US culture the participation and talking are…