Discourse and culture in language teaching: A Romanian textbook for Chinese learners

Abstract

This paper explores the intersection of language teaching and Chinese cultural values through analysing the design of a Romanian language textbook for Chinese students. Rooted in the holistic, harmony-oriented worldview of Chinese philosophy (Shi-xu, 2014), the contemporary Chinese discourse reflects a distinct cultural and pedagogical framework that influences foreign language teaching methodologies in China. By analysing the Romanian textbook, this paper demonstrates how a language-learning tool can be seen as a discourse on Chinese culture, presenting language acquisition within the context of Chinese educational traditions and cultural norms. Understanding the link between Chinese discourse and language learning is crucial for enhancing the teacher’s intercultural competence. By reflecting on these cultural dynamics, teachers can better navigate the complexities of teaching Romanian in a Chinese context, ultimately improving the effectiveness of their pedagogical approach.