Chinese Culture in ELT Classroom --The Influence of Chinese Culture on Students’ Answering questions Lu Lingping Hubei University

Introduction (background and purpose of the study) The general characteristics of Chinese students when answering questions in ELT classroom The influence of Chinese culture on Chinese students’ answering questions   Conclusion and suggestion

The general characteristics of Chinese students when answering questions in ELT classroom When a question is raised, most students Keep silent and wait for the answer, even if they know how to answer. Prefer to say “sorry”, if asked to reply. Willing to answer, but lack of courage stops them More interested in answering together. Don’t refer to what the previous speaker has said.

The influence of Chinese culture on Chinese students’ answering questions   The influence of the strong centralized educational system in China The influence of “face” in Chinese culture The influence of Chinese tradition regarding “teacher’s role” The influence of Confucian doctrine of the mean

The influence of the strong centralized educational system in China The present Chinese educational system has been influenced by the imperial examination system. Knowledge-based education Listening and speaking skills are neglected.

The influence of “face” in Chinese culture In order not to lose face, on one hand, you examine yourself any time or anywhere. On the other hand, you are careful about what you say and try your best not to get involved into trouble. Otherwise, you will run the risk of losing face. Most students are afraid of being singled out in front of the whole class.

The influence of Chinese tradition regarding “teacher’s role” Teachers in China have absolute authority in the classroom. As a source of knowledge, teachers are the most authoritative one to provide the right answer.

The influence of Confucian doctrine of the mean The Chinese culture emphasizes the insignificance of the individual. The opinions of others are of great importance for an individual in thinking and expressing his opinions. Chinese students always choose to speak out similar opinions to others’ rather than different ones.

Conclusion and Suggestion Teachers should be aware that learning behavior has to understood in the context of a particular culture of learning. Teacher should behave in an appropriate manner. Teachers should advocate competitive atmosphere in discussion.