Analyzing the learning needs of a Chinese language program with quantitative and qualitative data
What is it about?
With its value widely recognized, the systematic analysis of learning needs in a Chinese language program was launched for the first time in an American higher education institution. It collected data necessary for curriculum development and improvement by surveying 213 participants, including students, teachers, alumni, and administrators, and arrived at a panoramic profile of the program needs.
Why is it important?
Needs analysis is crucial for the accountability or accreditation of a language program. It identifies problems through analyzing data and finds solutions. If the analysis results are fully utilized, it would benefit the program development and growth. As a first-ever analysis of the needs for a program teaching Chinese as a foreign language, it opens a window to identifying more comprehensive and in-depth program needs in higher education.