Primary School English Language Education in China: Exploring the Attitudes and Perceptions of Key Stakeholders
File version
Author(s)
Primary Supervisor
Kirkpatrick, Thomas
Other Supervisors
Li, Minglin
Editor(s)
Date
Size
File type(s)
Location
License
Abstract
The phenomenon of English as an international language has impacted on China in a wide range of ways across educational systems and society. English is seen as an extremely important language; therefore, the Chinese Government has promoted the acquisition of English by their citizens by making it a compulsory subject from Primary Three (Year Three), believing the notion of “the earlier the better” for language learning. Previous studies regarding English language education in China have focused on language-in-education policies and curriculum implementation, and the problems of teaching and learning in tertiary settings, but few studies have been conducted in primary or secondary schools. Although some theoretical concerns about the involvement of micro-level agents, who are also key stakeholders, have been considered, difficulties and challenges faced at a micro-level within communities, in particular the voices of key stakeholders on real needs of English and status of English, have not been studied. Through exploring the attitudes and perceptions of five key stakeholders (parents, students, teachers, principals, and government officials), this present study provides an in-depth understanding of primary school English education in China and considers pedagogical implications for the teaching of English.
Journal Title
Conference Title
Book Title
Edition
Volume
Issue
Thesis Type
Thesis (PhD Doctorate)
Degree Program
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
School
School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science
Publisher link
Patent number
Funder(s)
Grant identifier(s)
Rights Statement
Rights Statement
The author owns the copyright in this thesis, unless stated otherwise.
Item Access Status
Note
Access the data
Related item(s)
Subject
English language education, China
English as a second language, China
Language education policy, China