Dr Stephen Whitehead: The Asian century is underway
Jul 21, 2020
auto_awesome
Dr Stephen Whitehead, an internationally recognized author and academic, discusses the implications of the Asian century. They explore the shift in perception of Asian students studying abroad, the rise of Asian countries in the global elite, the Asian perception of the UK, and key considerations for Western institutions in adapting to the Asian century.
Asian students are increasingly opting for quality education within their own countries due to a loss of trust and respect for Western education systems caused by the efficient handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in Asia compared to the West.
To remain competitive, Western education institutions must adapt their marketing strategies, build trust and safety, and consider establishing physical presences in Asia as UK universities have seen a 90% decline in Asian student interest.
Deep dives
The impact of COVID-19 on student mobility
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a decline in interest from Asian students to study in the UK and US. The efficient handling of the pandemic in Asia compared to the West has caused a loss of trust and respect for Western education systems. This shift in perception has given rise to a new narrative where the West is seen as unwelcome, hostile, unsafe, and economically and socially failing. As a result, Asian students are reconsidering their options and looking for quality education within their own countries.
Implications on Western education institutions
These changing perceptions have significant implications for Western education institutions. UK universities have seen a 90% decline in Asian student interest, while US, France, and Germany have experienced nearly 100% declines. UK universities are also dropping in global rankings, while Asian universities are rising. To remain competitive, Western institutions must adapt their marketing strategies, focus on building trust and safety, and consider establishing physical presences in Asia.
Opportunities for Western teachers
Despite the decline in student interest, there are still opportunities for Western teachers in Asia. The demand for high-quality education and Western expertise remains. Asian schools are likely to continue recruiting Western teachers who are trained in student-centered learning and differentiation. However, it is important for schools to maintain a balance and also emphasize the value of Asian and local teachers to create a multicultural and inclusive learning environment.
Adapting to the changing landscape
Western education institutions must recognize the long-term nature of this shift and change their mindsets accordingly. They should focus on building trust, safety, and cultural understanding with Asian students and parents. Digital marketing strategies and embracing technology will be crucial in reaching the Asian market. Institutions should also prioritize inclusivity, diversity, and multiculturalism in their student and staff cohorts to foster a truly global learning environment.
In this episode, Director of Persyou, Nicholas McKie is joined by internationally recognised author and academic, Dr Stephen Whitehead. His 13th book, titled: International schools: The teacher's handbook, will be published this year. Stephen outlines how the Asian century is underway with Covid-19 finally busting the colonialist mindset in Asia. The implications for international education going forward are explored in this fascinating discussion.
https://www.persyou.com/
Hello@persyou.com
https://www.youtube.com/@persyou
https://www.linkedin.com/company/persyou/
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode