The educational structure in China has its roots in cultural and historical emphasis on examinations as a
precursor for any promotion or advancement.
Chinese students traditionally concentrate on memorizing material without asking questions or discussing the
content.
There is utmost respect for age and hierarchy, which is based on the Confucian concept of li. Everyone in society
has a specific position in society. Elders, hierarchy within society and the government are traditionally respected.
The ideal educator can be seen as a benevolent autocrat. Chinese students expect to be told what to do, and it is
not rare for a Chinese professor to lecture right out of the textbook.