Exploring the impact of the organization of residential colleges on college student learning in China

Abstract

The thesis examines the organizational models of residential colleges in Chinese universities and their impact on student learning experiences. It begins by outlining the evolution of China's higher education landscape, particularly the emergence of residential colleges as a reformative response to modern educational demands. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining documentary analysis, interviews, and surveys in the same university which have three residential colleges that operate under distinct organizational models to examine how organizational models, supportive practices, and contextual factors within these three residential colleges affect students' learning experiences. Findings suggest a significant correlation between the organizational model of residential colleges and enhanced student learning, highlighting the role of integrated living-learning environments in fostering academic and personal development. This research contributes to the understanding of residential colleges in the Chinese context, offering insights into their unique features and implications for higher education reform. It underscores the need for adaptive governance and pedagogical strategies that align with the holistic development of students in an increasingly complex educational milieu.

Date of Award	22 Jan 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bath
Supervisor	Gina Wisker (Supervisor), Roger King (Supervisor) & Kendall Jarrett (Supervisor)