Chinese conceptions of learning and teaching: a westerner's attempt at understanding

Abstract

Four qualitatively different conceptions of learning and three of teaching are presented as the findings of this study. Learning was understood as (l)the acquisition of knowledge or skill from others, (2)a fulfilment of responsibility to society, (3) a change in understanding of something external to self, and (4) a change in understanding one's self. Teaching was understood as (1) the delivery of content; (2) the development of character; and (3) a type of relationship. It is argued that some of these conceptions are compatible with, and possibly derivative of, cultural, social, political and economic factors within China.