Better English teaching methods encouraged

Wang Chuming, a research professor at Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, suggested educators put more effort into improving Chinese students' English language skills.

"Schools should nurture students to flexibly apply what they've learned to different contexts," said Wang on Friday at the 2019 Global English Education China Assembly in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province.

He explained at the start of the three-day assembly that this requires students to understand the correct use of the language to express their meaning clearly in real life settings.

"Recent years have seen great improvements in Chinese students' English language skills, but it is obvious that English language education is still somehow exam-oriented in China," Wang added.

To tackle the issue, the industry needs more qualified teachers, including introducing native English speakers as instructors.

" Teachers with advanced levels of English proficiency will provide students with a good English speaking environment where students learn to use the language, and in turn enhance teaching efficiency in class."

Wang will deliver a speech on Saturday on how to adapt static linguistic knowledge to dynamic conversations. He pointed out that teaching should integrate listening, speaking, reading and writing in the teaching process to enhance teaching efficiency.

Despite challenges, Wang stressed that the government has attached great importance to English teaching through approaches such as teacher training and international exchanges.

He added that international conferences on education also play vital roles in education enhancement.

"This assembly, for instance, acts as a critical and valuable platform for teachers to share insights with their domestic peers."