Shaping blended learning pedagogy for East Asian learning styles

Abstract

Cross-cultural differences have a major influence on the way instruction is shaped and the way learning takes place within any classroom. In a blended learning environment, non-English-speaking trainees often need to adapt to the concept of computer-aided instruction or learning online while they learn how to cope with a new and different teaching style. For example, in a typical classroom, where interactivity is a goal, an Asian learner may have a difficult time overcoming his or her traditional role as respectful listener. An Asian learner who has never worked with computer-aided instruction may find it difficult to cope with learning the system while having to master the content delivered through the system. This paper examines learning styles preferred by Asian learners and how these preferred styles affect the delivery of a blended learning Aviation English program to be delivered in China.