Developing the PRC′s Managers: How Can Western Experts Become More Helpful?

Abstract

Introduces a heuristic framework to help westerners compare and contrast management in the People′s Republic of China (PRC) with the West. Western educators and consultants participating in management development programmes in the PRC have reported difficulties in understanding the realities of managing in the PRC, encouraging trainee participation, organizing effective group discussion among trainees, joining efforts with PRC faculty, and overcoming frustration caused by inefficient administrative support. Explores the causes for these difficulties by examining the differences between the PRC and the West in terms of pedagogy, classroom culture, attitudes towards foreigners, and research orientation. Offers examples and recommendations to westerners who hope to contribute more effectively to the PRC′s management development.