Engaging Chinese Students in Teaching and Learning at Western Higher Education Institutions

There has been an increase over the past decade in the number of Chinese students studying in western Higher Education Institutions, with figures expected to increase over the next 10 years. However, this has proved particularly challenging for the lecturers in these Institutions regarding how best to engage and teach this particularly unique student group. The Chinese student presents these challenges due to the many cultural and language differences that can be identified, as well as to the western teacher’s perception of how these students like to be taught. This book disputes such myths, and provide a useful guide on what those challenges are, offering practical guidance on how to overcome them. The book firstly identifies and defines the Chinese student studying for a degree in western universities and institutions, before going on to examine and explore the cultural differences by discussing issues around teaching and learning. A chapter focusing specifically on language breaks down the differences in detail, with discussions around tonal language and its impact on the student’s understanding. Further chapters discuss attitudes to learning, staff support for teaching this particular group, and, finally, some practical suggestions on how best to engage the student and enable them to achieve.