A Successful Training Activity for Dough Modeling by CI

On March 7, 2015, the Confucius Institute at the University of Saskatchewan conducted a training activity for dough modeling at the Juniper House in Saskatoon.

On March 7, 2015, the Confucius Institute at the University of Saskatchewan conducted a training activity for dough modeling at the Juniper House in Saskatoon. Our trainees were mainly volunteers of the Confucius Institute at the University of Saskatchewan and other friends in the network. The instructor, Xin Guo, was also a volunteer of the Confucius Institute at the University of Saskatchewan. People were taught the basic skills of doing dough coloring and modeling. Everyone enjoyed it.

The first part of the training started with dough coloring. Having nice color is important for a good dough modeling work. Xin Guo introduced the skills of doing dough coloring. People showed much interest and could not wait to start trying.

After that, the most important part began- dough modeling, which gave “spirit” to the dough. A good dough model consists of accurate approach and frequent practices.

The instructor, Xin Guo, provided detailed explanations for making two sample models: a parrot and a tiger. Everyone quickly learned the basic skills and then began the modeling process step by step.

The first sample dough model to make was a parrot. Some mistakes were inevitably made for the first try. Some round shapes turned flat; other thin parts got too thick. But this was necessary for the learning process.

People discovered their own work pace during this gradual learning process and were able to produce satisfactory work.

After making the parrot dough model, Xin Guo taught the skills to make a tiger. The process got easier for everyone.

At the end of the learning activity, the participants were treated to a pizza meal that was sponsored by the Confucius Institute at the University of Saskatchewan. People were happy to see their own work and enjoyed the meal.

This activity was the first outcome of the learning exchange completed by the Confucius Institute at the University of Saskatchewan in Edmonton. The activity was successful due to our deliberate preparation. The Confucius Institute at the University of Saskatchewan will continue working on these types of meaningful activities to make our cultural events more lively and exciting.