Modernising Education in Britain and China: Comparative Perspectives on Excellence and Social Inclusion

In spite of the perceived differences between Eastern and Western culture and society, the education systems of Britain and China can be seen to share certain goals, priorities and challenges. Modernisation is very much a core objective for educators in both countries. Moreover, both education systems must confront the tension between promoting social inclusion and achieving competitive academic excellence. Based upon the authors extensive teaching experience and over a decades research into inclusion and exclusion in Britain, China and Hong Kong, this book provides an original, stimulating and insightful perspective on inclusive educational reform in two different cultures. It examines a broad range of educational environments, from kindergartens to teacher training colleges, and draws upon a fascinating diversity of official and personal documentary sources. Primarily concerned with the question of inclusion, the book also addresses issues of language and communication, gender imbalances and inequalities, curricula for teacher education, critical questioning and frameworks for learning support.