How Chinese business leaders in the tutoring industry learned to think strategically in a time of crisis

Abstract

AbstractChinese leaders in the tutoring industry encountered a crisis brought about by the Pandemic and the Double Reduction Policy. This exploratory multi‐case study applied a conceptual framework that combines informal learning, strategic thinking, and experiential learning theory to explore how those leaders learned to think strategically in this crisis. Fifteen Chinese educational entrepreneurs were interviewed about their strategies and learning experiences related to the crisis. The findings suggest that the participants learned to think strategically from direct experiences, indirect experiences, and two thinking processes – systems thinking and metaphorical thinking. This process was also influenced by Chinese cultural and historical wisdom. This study extends the current understanding of strategic thinking and learning practices among Chinese educational entrepreneurs. The research contributes to cultivating Chinese leaders’ strategic thinking capabilities through informal learning during crises and offers practical value for leadership development in Chinese culture.