Chapter 5: The Awakening of Young Adolescent Education in the People’S Republic of China

Fueled by a booming economy and increased interest from international markets, China is breaking all records as it emerges as a dynamic developing country. Because of its vast population, rapidly growing economy, and large research and development investments, China is considered by most an emerging superpower. In the context of dramatic change, the Ministry of Education has created new educational policies impacting young adolescent education that attempt to embrace modernity while simultaneously preserving and honoring the best of Chinese tradition. Currently, the dominant teaching approach is based on the transmission-acceptance model, where teachers transmit knowledge to students through exhibition and clarification. In light of China’s new goal of becoming an innovation oriented society, teachers are beginning to entertain more student-centered models such as quality oriented education, inquiry learning, and cooperative learning. As new policies and constructs for teaching and learning unfold, opportunities for purposeful cultivation of young adolescent education are emerging.