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Review of Workplace English Training and Learning Research in the Chinese Context

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English Language Training in the Workplace
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Abstract

This chapter reviews previous studies in Hong Kong and mainland China which are typical of the Chinese context. The focuses of review are on English language in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and mainland China, English language and continuing education policies in Hong Kong and mainland China, and the workplace English training in Hong Kong and mainland China. This chapter serves as the background for the subsequent Chinese context research. It introduces the important role of English in the socioeconomic development of Hong Kong and mainland China and presents the policy background, the current workplace English training practices, and the existing challenges or problems that are awaiting researchers to solve. This chapter indicates that workplace English training in Hong Kong is highly effective, due to government funding support during the period of Workplace English Campaign since 2000. Hong Kong’s successful experiences can be used in developing workplace English training programs in mainland China and informing the Chinese context research.

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Xie, Q. (2016). Review of Workplace English Training and Learning Research in the Chinese Context. In: English Language Training in the Workplace. Technical and Vocational Education and Training: Issues, Concerns and Prospects, vol 22. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-30157-0_4

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