Editing Great Learning (section)

==Impact on education in China==
Although the [[Imperial Examination]] System is no longer used as a means of determining one's place in the social hierarchy, education and the teachings of the ''Great Learning'' remain an integral part of modern educational and political culture in China. In fact, a number of scholars believe that all education in mainland China is based on Confucianism to some degree although many individuals, students and teachers alike, are unaware of the Confucian influence on their education. ''The Great Learning'' was written and later published as its own book, to serve as an introduction and foundational guide for the further study of Confucian texts. ''The Great Learning'' provides a step-by-step illustration of how all aspects of society, ranging from the refinement of the self to the order within one's household or state is ultimately dependent upon the expansion of one's knowledge.<ref name="Wang">Wang, Ting. "Understanding Chinese Culture and Learning." Diss. U of Canberra, Australia. 2006.</ref>{{rp|2}}

{{anchor|Effects on the education in Modern China}}

===Effects on education in Modern China===
* '''A Valued Education:''' China is characterized by a great appreciation for education as it is still viewed as a means of securing a rewarding career, thus elevating an individual in terms of social status. The modern schooling system relates directly to the teachings of the ''Great Learning'' as educational institutions represent the primary sites for the expansion of knowledge and the investigation of "things." It is quite common in China for great sums of money to be spent to secure the best possible education. Due to the high value of a quality education, illiteracy and drop-out rates throughout China are very low.<ref name="Wang"/>{{rp|2–3}}
* '''Memorization:''' Due to the service examination system which involved the memorization and recitation of Confucian Texts, including ''The Great Learning'', memorization remains a key element in Chinese learning. Throughout much of China, it is still held that one should memorize as much knowledge as they possibly can, as one is incapable of the creation of intelligent thought without first obtaining enough basic knowledge. The focus on exams and the recitation of knowledge is, however, often attributed to "surface learning," but one should note that memorization is not used in isolation, but represents only one aspect of a student's quest for knowledge and self-cultivation. This focus on memorization can be seen in the consistency in which Chinese students excel in mathematics and sciences.<ref name="Wang"/>{{rp|4–8}}
* '''Working Collaboratively:''' Due to the Confucian values of harmony, relationship and moral cultivation as presented in the ''Great Learning'', students in China were traditionally taught the value of collaborative learning. To this day, group learning remains the most popular learning method throughout the bulk of China.<ref name="Zhang">Zhang, Weiyuan. "Conceptions of lifelong learning in Confucian culture: their impact on adult Learners." ''International Journal of Lifelong Education'', Vol. 27, No. 5 (September–October, 2008): 551–557.</ref>{{rp|554–555}}
* '''Hard Work:''' ''The Great Learning'' states that all people are to expand their knowledge and cultivate themselves. This, in turn, is often interpreted to mean that all people are capable of learning, and that failure is not a result of a lack of ability, but a lack of effort. As a result of this philosophy, Chinese students are known worldwide as being very hardworking, putting a great deal of effort into everything they do.<ref name="Zhang"/>{{rp|555}}
* '''A Respectful Learning Atmosphere:''' Due largely to the high value of a quality education and the Confucian teaching of respect for one's elders, educators in Chinese culture are treated with the utmost respect. In fact, teachers are customarily granted the same level of respect given to a parent. As a result of this level of respect for educators and the institution as a whole, students are not quick to interrupt or otherwise challenge the authority of those delivering the knowledge required for a successful future.<ref name="Wang"/>{{rp|5,8}}