Introduction and Research Overview

Abstract

This book aims to propose an applied theoretical framework that could assist reformers in Confucian heritage culture (CHC) countries to achieve success in implementing cooperative learning and student-centred learning. This framework is needed because the literature has recently documented a large number of failures in educational reforms in CHC nations. The main reason is that Western-developed practices have often been imported to CHC classrooms without a careful consideration of their appropriateness within the sociocultural context of CHC countries. To ensure the successful importation of Western-developed learning practices, the framework proposes that CHC reformers need to bring about a change in factors that have an influence on learning such as teaching and assessment practices. Besides, the reform itself needs to be modified to become appropriate to institutional conditions and cultural values within CHC countries. The author used findings of several empirical studies to demonstrate that this framework is applicable in reality.