Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Thesis Format

Monograph

Degree

Master of Arts

Program

Education

Supervisor

Li, Jun

Abstract

This study aims to explore the university partnership of the Confucius Institute between its partner from Canada and China. Drawing on organizational theory through the lens of higher education partnerships, the study uses a qualitative research method with a case study approach. Taking the Confucius Institute in a Canadian university as a case, the study probes into research questions regarding the nature and characteristics of the partnership built via the Confucius Institute as the platform, the key stakeholders involved in the partnership of the Confucius Institute, and in what ways have the key stakeholders shaped the partnership. Data were collected through the documents of the Confucius Institute and a semi-structured interview with the Canadian co-director. Key issues revealed from the data are the partnership mechanism of the Confucius Institute, dynamic interactions between the various key stakeholders in different stages of the partnership, in what perspectives the inside and outside stakeholders influence partnership building and the common objectives fulfillment of both partner universities. Discussions on the coping strategies to advance the partnership of the Confucius Institute are also provided in this study. Further, the author concludes with proper implications for the development of the Confucius model partnership based on the findings.

Summary for Lay Audience

This study aims to outline the university partnership of the Confucius Institute under the cooperation between the Canadian and Chinese partner universities. The research topic is navigated from two perspectives: the Confucius Institute itself as a language educational organization, and the Confucius Institute as a platform that enables its partnership between paired universities. Taking the Confucius Institute in a Canadian university as a case, the study explores the university partnership of the Confucius Institute from five perspectives: governance, equity, standards, teachers and community building. Data were collected through the documents of the Confucius Institute and a semi-structured interview with the Canadian co-director. Then, the research attempts to figure out who are the key stakeholders of the Confucius Institute involved in its partnership. Further, in what ways these stakeholders shape the partnership from the abovementioned perspectives. Discussions on the coping strategies to advance the partnership of the Confucius Institute are also provided in this study. Further, the author concludes with proper implications for the development of the Confucius model partnership based on the findings, intending to contribute to the university partnership, language learners around the world, and cultural understanding between various civilizations.

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