Perceptions of Chinese Spanish-Language Tutors on the Learning and Teaching of Spanish Language and Cultures in China

In recent years, the growing significance of the Spanish language in China has underscored the need for a deeper understanding of Spanish language education within this context. At the same time, there still exists a standing debate surrounding the effectiveness of prevailing language teaching methodologies, particularly the communicative approach, in Chinese educational settings, as well as the related-challenges that its actual implementation often brings to foreign language teachers. These reported challenges often manifest as students' reluctance to actively engage, ask questions, or participate in discussions, all of which is often attributed in part to the substantial cultural disparity between Chinese and Western teaching traditions. Addressing these cultural barriers is vital for optimizing the learning and teaching experience. Furthermore, the distinct cultural and linguistic disparities between Spain and China require thorough reflection and comprehension to facilitate effective language acquisition. At this point, getting local tutors’ insights heard and understood may shed some light over the question.By considering the perspectives of Chinese locals on these matters, the study seeks to inform more culturally sensitive and efficacious teaching strategies, thereby enhancing the overall learning experience for both students and educators. Through this comprehensive approach, the study aims to contribute to the advancement of Spanish language education in China and promote greater cross-cultural understanding and communication. In summary, the project explores the perceptions of Chinese Spanish-language tutors regarding various aspects of the learning and teaching of Spanish language and culture in China, such as the effectiveness of teaching approaches, cultural challenges, and the impact of linguistic differences between Spanish and Chinese. The research seeks to understand how these factors influence the language learning and teaching process for both students and tutors, ultimately providing insights into the landscape of Spanish language education in China. These may ultimately prove beneficial for Spanish language tutors operating within the Chinese educational framework. Following the interviews, the gathered data will be analyzed, and the main findings will be disseminated through publications or presented at relevant conferences, seminars, or training sessions.