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The impact of overseas training on curriculum innovation and change in English language education in Western China

Li, D. and Edwards, V. (2013) The impact of overseas training on curriculum innovation and change in English language education in Western China. Language Teaching Research, 17 (4). pp. 390-408. ISSN 1477-0954

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To link to this item DOI: 10.1177/1362168813494124

Abstract/Summary

This article assesses the impact of a UK-based professional development programme on curriculum innovation and change in English Language Education (ELE) in Western China. Based on interviews, focus group discussions and observation of a total of 48 English teachers who had participated in an overseas professional development programme influenced by modern approaches to education and ELE, and 9 of their colleagues who had not taken part, it assesses the uptake of new approaches on teachers’ return to China. Interviews with 10 senior managers provided supplementary data. Using Diffusion of Innovations Theory as the conceptual framework, we examine those aspects of the Chinese situation that are supportive of change and those that constrain innovation. We offer evidence of innovation in classroom practice on the part of returnees and ‘reinvention’ of the innovation to ensure a better fit with local needs. The key role of course participants as opinion leaders in the diffusion of new ideas is also explored. We conclude that the selective uptake of this innovation is under way and likely to be sustained against a background of continued curriculum reform in China.

Item Type:Article
Refereed:Yes
Divisions:Interdisciplinary Research Centres (IDRCs) > Centre for Literacy and Multilingualism (CeLM)
Arts, Humanities and Social Science > Institute of Education > Improving Equity and Inclusion through Education
Arts, Humanities and Social Science > Institute of Education > Language and Literacy in Education
ID Code:33149
Publisher:Sage

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