The changing face of international education in China

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the growing popularity of international schools in China. Two types of international schools are discussed: independent international schools that only foreign passport holders can attend (e.g. Shanghai American School), and international programs in the public system that both foreigners and Chinese nationals can attend (e.g. International Experimental Class, No. 1 Middle School, Wuhan).

Design/methodology/approach

A comparative analysis is carried out of the historical context, mission, curriculum, students, teachers, governance and tuition of two sample schools (one sample from each type of international school in China).

Findings

Analysis reveals similarities, differences, and challenges each school experiences. Examples of recent cross‐cultural collaborative efforts aiming to alleviate these challenges are then identified, including the discussion of a third sample school, the Nansha College Preparatory Academy in Shenzhen.

Originality/value

This paper provides insight into how international education is evolving in China, and how cross‐cultural collaboration can be employed to support growth and improvement of international education in China.

Citation

Robinson, J. and Guan, X. (2012), "The changing face of international education in China", On the Horizon, Vol. 20 No. 4, pp. 305-312. https://doi.org/10.1108/10748121211272443