Mahjong playing course for expats is newly opened in town. [China Daily]

Two Chinese teachers provide guidance, and teachers and participants are required to speak Chinese throughout the two-hour workshop.

"Students are learning a new language and culture, but also having fun," Chen said. "Isn't it the best way of learning?"

The results of the class are apparent. Those who didn't know a single word of Chinese learned to count numbers after one workshop.

They also are able to grasp the rules and form strategies by the end of the workshop, she added.

With mahjong proficiency, a foreigner can easily find Chinese friends to play with, "which is a good scenario to practice Chinese", Chen added.

The workshop is still recruiting. It opens once every month and it is free of charge at present. To sign up or obtain more information, call the Bell center at 6409-6582.

(China Daily April 13, 2010)