Breaking the Stereotypes

Abstract

Creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration are 21st-century skills that prepare individuals to succeed in the changing world. Therefore, there is a strong pedagogical need to promote these skills in EFL classrooms, given that meaningful language learning enables learners to use English as a tool for effective communication. However, the Chinese learning culture has long been criticised for being reluctant to develop thinking skills. Hence, this study aims to break the stereotypes and to find out how teachers promote thinking skills in Chinese primary EFL classrooms. The key finding reveals the use of silence as an opportunity to promote thinking, whereas challenges, such as insufficient pedagogical knowledge, are also identified from classroom interaction. Pedagogical suggestions are put forward for teacher educators and teachers in the field of language education.