Q&A with Bob Davis CEO, Mandarin Matrix on Immersion and Dual Language Education

With its 8th edition of the International Conference on Immersion and Dual Language Education being held March 2-5, 2022 in Salt Lake City Utah we sit down with Robert (Bob) Davis, CEO Mandarin Matrix to talk about learning a world language, improving proficiency and the resources available to schools.

Tell us about yourself and Mandarin Matrix?

Ninmen hao! My name is Robert Davis and I am the Global CEO of Mandarin Matrix.

Mandarin Matrix is a customizable, online learning platform designed to support learners of Mandarin as a world language from kindergarten through to middle school. The Mandarin Matrix Online Classroom and supporting print materials offer a complete learning solution with an integrated range of learning tools designed to be user-friendly and easily accessible. Students follow individual learning journeys toward developing a rich knowledge of the language and improving proficiency in reading, writing, speaking and listening. Through the Mandarin Matrix Online Classroom, students can access thousands of books, games, activities and assessments safely and quickly, anytime and anywhere.

What kind of resources does Mandarin Matrix provide and how does it improve proficiency?

We find that Teachers have a limited amount of time to improve Chinese literacy while also teaching content.  Our DLI Proficiency Builders feature everyday tales, reflecting real-life settings of school, family and community, providing core curriculum and teaching resources such as writing worksheets and guides. Our content focuses on contemporary topics which are relevant and engaging to learners. Our curriculum and content is designed by master in service teachers and can be mapped to any K12 curriculum and localized for cultural sensitivity and navigation.

The 2022 conference theme “Embracing Languages and Cultures for A Better World” represents its mission and key tenets: diversity of languages, collaboration and inclusivity, and equity.  How does that theme apply to you?

I love this theme and feel it is very timely. So often we think of a language in the context of one place from where it originates from. But the reality is much more nuanced than that, and what we are teaching are world languages. Language learners should be able to use languages in a variety of environments and communities, not just on a trip abroad. And as a second language learner myself, I know how powerful language is in bridging gaps, building new communities and connecting beyond my own heritage.

What kind of resources will Mandarin Matrix be showcasing at the event?

We have been working very hard over the last year or so to collect teacher and student input, and to modify and improve our products so they are optimal for use. We will be focusing on our digital platform and showing guests our 2.0 content which includes new Math and Science DLI materials as well as an entirely new Middle-Early College product called Chinese Connections. We cannot wait for everyone to check them out! And of course, we are always happy to provide free trials to teachers who want to dig in a little deeper and explore our materials with their students.

To learn more about Mandarin Matrix’s language immersion program and avail a two-week free trial please contact sales@mandarinmatrix.com.