FORMOSA FILES IN CHINESE! CH29-臺灣人的英文老師?—專訪 ICRT 總經理 Tim Berge
Oct 30, 2024
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Tim Berge, the general manager of ICRT and a radio veteran since 1990, shares insights into the unique role of English-language broadcasting in Taiwan. He discusses ICRT's historical significance and its evolution from a military station to a cultural cornerstone, aiding English learning among Taiwanese youth. Tim delves into his journey from traffic reporter to management, navigating media challenges and community engagement. The conversation also highlights ICRT's adaptability in a changing media landscape, vital for both local and international audiences.
ICRT has been pivotal in enhancing English language education and cultural exposure for Taiwan's population since its inception in 1979.
The evolution of media policies in Taiwan post-martial law has allowed ICRT to thrive, reflecting the country's growing democratic values and openness.
Deep dives
The Evolution of ICRT's Role in Taiwan
ICRT has played a significant role in Taiwan's media landscape, particularly in bridging cultural gaps through English-language broadcasting. When it was established, there were limited media outlets available, and ICRT became a vital source for Western music and news, making it integral to the daily lives of many listeners. The station was originally a foreign entity running an English program, and its historical importance is underscored by its connection with a time when few media channels operated openly. Despite the evolution in media consumption among younger audiences, ICRT continues to adapt and offers podcasts to ensure ongoing relevance.
Media Freedom and Government Regulation
The podcast discusses the gradual opening of media in Taiwan, particularly after the end of martial law in the late 1980s. Although the lifting of martial law led to more freedom, certain limitations still persisted in media reporting, especially concerning political terms related to China. Over time, significant changes in media policies allowed for a broader discourse, enhancing the journalistic landscape and enabling voices like ICRT to flourish. These shifts in regulations reflect Taiwan's evolving democratic values and its commitment to becoming a more open society.
說到臺灣人早期學習英文的機會,ICRT大概是其中一個大家最熟悉的媒介。ICRT這個廣播電台的歷史從1957年的美軍電台開始,到1979年因為中美斷交而將設備象徵性的「賣」給中華民國政府,並在同年催生了「ICRT」,台北國際社區廣播電台(International Community Radio Taipei)至今,已經用ICRT這個名字在臺灣播送了45年。由於是臺灣歷史上唯一的英語廣播電台,又容易收聽,自然成為臺灣人學習英文與接觸外國文化的重要來源。這回的 Formosa Files 中文版 Podcast,就由主持人 Eryk Michael Smith 來專訪ICRT的總經理 Tim Berge,一起為大家說說ICRT的故事。
主持人簡介:
Eryk Michael Smith-ICRT南臺灣特派員,長期從事記者採編工作、聲音編輯,也會客串DJ。現居高雄,在臺灣已經居住了接近30年,認為臺灣是自己的家。
來賓簡介:
Tim Berge(白健文)-來自美國明尼蘇達州,於1990年加入ICRT,在空中帶領通勤族從臺灣的混亂交通中找出一條回家的安全道路。目前擔任總經理,擅長英語和中文,熱愛火鍋和跑步,並喜歡看喜劇和享受戶外生活。
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