Pedagogy and human dignity - the Special Rank Teacher in China since 1978

Author: Ko Po-Yuk   Adamson Bob  

Publisher: Routledge Ltd

ISSN: 1464-5130

Source: History of Education, Vol.40, Iss.3, 2011-05, pp. : 371-389

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Abstract

Teachers in China are regarded as vulnerable to sociopolitical changes. This paper, however, focuses on the resilience and innovativeness of state-selected expert teachers - the recipients of the Special Rank Teacher (SRT) award. This award was the product of a transitional period in the aftermath of the Cultural Revolution, and was an act of rehabilitation for the teaching profession. Using a biographical approach, this paper analyses how the intentions of the award were reflected in the choice of recipients. It contributes to a deeper understanding of teachers in China and the notion of teaching excellence that the state-recognised teachers exemplify.