Wenqian Zhang

About

I am Wenqian Zhang, a designer and art educator specializing in the nexus of interculturality and cooperative learning. Born into the realm of graphic design during my undergraduate years, my journey transitioned towards creative education for my graduate studies. My research at the Royal College of Art (RCA) in the UK centered on the cooperative learning experiences and expectations of Chinese students abroad, revealing intricate layers of challenges influenced by cultural, linguistic, and educational disparities.

My learning experience at RCA sparked my keen interest in cooperative learning. From RCA’s cooperative learning, I learned that Chinese students prefer to learn alone due to the language barrier and the influence of China’s test-based education environment. This makes it often challenging for Chinese students to learn cooperatively.

I developed a foundational set of cooperative learning guidelines for Chinese students. These include essential cooperative skills, team-building methods, and cross-cultural communication strategies intended to ease the transition of Chinese students into more collaborative educational frameworks. My vision extends beyond individual learning improvements; it encompasses fostering essential teamwork and communication skills across academic institutions in China.

The concept of synergy in cooperative learning underscores its significance as a vital skill for both academic and social progression. As education globalizes, the need for robust educational reforms to enhance cooperative learning effectiveness becomes increasingly critical. My research advocates for these reforms, emphasizing tailored training in cooperative skills and hands-on experiences in diverse team roles. I am deeply committed to continuously refining these educational methodologies and expanding their application across more schools and academic institutions in China.