Bahasa Mandarin - Students of the Mandarin Language Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FIB USU), Class of 2023, conducted a study tour to Tjong A Fie Mansion, one of Medan’s iconic cultural heritage sites, on Tuesday, November 28, 2023. The off-campus learning activity provided students with an opportunity to broaden their understanding of the history of the Chinese community in North Sumatra while exploring the cultural heritage and processes of cultural acculturation that have shaped Medan.
The activity was designed as a form of contextual learning that connected academic knowledge with first-hand field experience. Through their visit to Tjong A Fie Mansion, students were able to directly observe historical artifacts, architectural features, and cultural elements that reflect interactions between the Chinese community and local cultures.
During the visit, the students toured the mansion under the guidance of a professional historical guide. They received explanations about the history of the building, the life and contributions of Tjong A Fie, and the development of the Chinese community throughout the history of Medan.
The students also observed various artifacts and architectural elements preserved within the mansion. Chinese decorative motifs, together with the combination of Chinese, Malay, and European architectural styles, provided an important reference for understanding the processes of cultural acculturation that took place in the area.
In addition to observing the historical site, the students listened to presentations about Tjong A Fie’s contributions to the social development of Medan. The information offered valuable perspectives on the role of prominent figures and the Chinese community in fostering social relations and cross-cultural interactions in North Sumatra.
The study tour also included discussions and documentation activities. Through these activities, students were encouraged to develop their observational and analytical skills while connecting their linguistic knowledge with historical and cultural contexts.
This off-campus learning experience played an important role in enhancing the students’ cultural awareness and sensitivity. Beyond learning Mandarin as a language, the students gained first-hand experience in understanding cultural diversity, the history of the Chinese community, and the dynamics of cultural acculturation that have contributed to Medan’s cultural identity.
The activity concluded with a group photo involving the Class of 2023 students and their accompanying lecturers and staff in the main courtyard of Tjong A Fie Mansion.
Through this study tour, students are expected to develop a greater appreciation for cultural heritage, deepen their understanding of diversity and intercultural interaction, and incorporate field-based experiences into their academic development. The activity also strengthened Mandarin language learning by extending it beyond linguistic competence to include a broader understanding of history, culture, and intercultural relations.