Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language in Higher Education in China and South Africa: Lecturers' views

  • Yuhua Wang Tianjin Polytechnic University Peoples Republic of China
  • Eleanor Lemmer University of South Africa
Keywords: Chinese as foreign language, China, South Africa, higher education, survey, language pedagogy

Abstract

As demand for knowledge of the Chinese language has increased, so too have the teaching and learning of Chinese worldwide. This article presents the findings arising from a questionnaire administered to lecturers teaching Chinese as Foreign Language (CFL) in universities in both China and South Africa. CFL programmes offered by universities in China are a popular choice among foreign students who wish to learn Chinese. In addition, the increase in CFL programmes offered by universities in South Africa reflects a growing interest in the Chinese language among South African nationals. The purpose of the questionnaire was to find the differences and similarities between teaching CFL in China and in South Africa, as seen from the lecturers’ perspective. It details the research method that was followed and it presents its main findings in tables. The findings consist of a biographical profile, institutional factors, aspects concerning students, teaching methods, and curriculums. The possible reasons for differences and similarities between the two countries are explained. 

Author Biographies

Yuhua Wang, Tianjin Polytechnic University Peoples Republic of China
Yuhua Wang is an Associate Professor at the School of International Education, Tianjin Polytechnic University, China.Email address: 2490328574@qq.com
Eleanor Lemmer, University of South Africa
Eleanor Maud Lemmer is Research Professor in the College of Education, Unisa where she began her academic career in 1987. She has published widely as author, co-author, academic editor and author of journal articles and presented papers at international conferences. Her areas of specialisation are linguistic diversity and parent involvement in schooling. Email address: lemmeem@unisa.ac.za
Published
2015-09-22
Section
Articles