Mathematics Classroom Instruction in China Viewed from a Historical Perspective: Guanghua Shao, Yuchao Fan, Rongjin Huang, Ersheng Ding and Yeping Li

There is a growing interest in exploring how the Chinese learn and teach mathematics because Chinese students have consistently performed superbly in mathematics in international assessments (e.g., Fan, Wong, Cai, & Li, 2004; Watkins & Biggs, 2001). Yet, many reform proponents have criticized Chinese traditional education theories as outdated (Huo, 2007; Wei, 2005). In particular, they suggest the Chinese give up completely their direct-instruction method that provides students with extensive exercises through mathematics instruction.