Young People's Unique Study Spot: Disney Parks
In an era where learning environments are becoming increasingly diverse, young people have found a surprisingly unconventional spot for study: Disney theme parks. Since around March of this year, social media has been flooded with posts about young individuals, primarily students, turning Disney and Universal Studios into their study hubs. This trend, which may seem paradoxical at first, offers a unique blend of fun and functionality, appealing to a generation that prioritizes both relaxation and productivity.
The phenomenon began when students, many of whom are annual pass holders, realized they could maximize the value of their passes by turning these amusement parks into study spots. With annual passes at Disney costing as little as 1,399 yuan and Universal Studios offering student passes at 988 yuan, frequent visits become cost-effective. For some, the idea of studying in a magical setting was initially inspired by others' social media posts showing them working on their laptops or studying amid the thrill rides and themed decor.
Take Xia Wanying, for example, who dresses up like a "Disney princess" for her study sessions. She travels to Disney early in the morning, makes her way to the colorful castle, and settles down with her iPad and English textbooks. Her routine combines learning with leisure; after a study session, she indulges in a ride or two to burn off some energy. "It's like having a library and a gym in one place, and it's unlikely to shut down," she jokes.
For others, like Wang Wei, who is preparing for the civil service exam, the idea of studying in Disney came from seeing posts about its designated work areas for professionals who need to catch up on their tasks. As her annual pass was about to expire and exam preparations were ramping up, she saw it as a perfect way to kill two birds with one stone. Zhang Xinxin, a second-year medical student, sees Disney as both a study spot and a gym, walking up to 10,000 to 20,000 steps a day as she alternates between studying and riding attractions.
However, the type of studying that can be done in these parks is quite specific. It's best suited for light tasks or mechanical memorization rather than complex, deep-thinking assignments. Wang Wei, for instance, focuses on civil service exam questions that are straightforward and do not require extensive mental effort. Xia Wanying limits her study sessions to a few English readings and vocabulary practice, which amounts to about 30% of her usual study load.
Some students have even turned these parks into English practice grounds. Zhao Tingting, who is preparing for the IELTS exam, found that interacting with Marvel characters in English provided excellent practice for her speaking skills. These characters, with their authentic American accents, willingly engage in conversations, making it an enjoyable way to enhance language proficiency.
But studying in Disney isn't just about the academics. It's also about the ritual and performance aspect of learning. Wang Wei, for example, finds that the elaborate preparations she makes before each study session—charging her iPad, going to bed early, and even planning her day around park shows—create a sense of ceremony that makes the study process more engaging. In this environment, surrounded by playful tourists and cheerful staff, students often feel a heightened sense of focus, as if they are performing for an audience that is always watching.
Moreover, the theme parks offer immediate rewards that incentivize studying. Zheng Yuwei, a frequent visitor to Universal Studios, has developed a routine where she rewards herself with a show after every study session. This not only gives her a clear motivation to study but also adds a fresh perspective to the shows she has seen multiple times.
However, the parks are not ideal study environments in terms of hardware. Finding a quiet spot can be challenging, especially during peak seasons. Most recommended study areas are outdoors, which limits their usability during bad weather. Indoor options, like restaurants with air conditioning and WiFi, are often noisy and lack electrical outlets.
Despite these challenges, the emotional value these parks offer is what keeps students coming back. The freedom to study or not, the lack of pressure to perform, and the overall sense of being in a magical world make it an appealing escape from the mundane routines of traditional study spaces. Students like Xia Wanying and Zhang Xinxin find that the relaxed atmosphere helps them approach their studies with a sense of ease and enjoyment.
The trend of studying in theme parks reflects a generational shift in attitudes towards learning. Young people are increasingly prioritizing mental well-being and emotional fulfillment over strict adherence to traditional study methods. For them, the process of learning is as important as the outcome, and these parks offer a unique way to combine both.
Of course, the reality is that not much actual studying happens in these parks. The allure of rides, shows, and snacks often distracts from the intended task. However, for many students, the emotional high they get from being in such an enchanting setting makes it worth the trip. Even when they don't complete their study goals, the experience leaves them feeling fulfilled and rejuvenated.
The phenomenon of young people studying in Disney and other theme parks is a testament to the evolving nature of learning environments. It shows how modern students are willing to explore unconventional ways to balance productivity and pleasure, turning even the most whimsical places into functional study spots. While it may not be the most efficient way to study, it certainly adds a touch of magic to the academic journey.
英文改写自《人物》微信公众号文章
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