Research on the current situation and prospects of teaching Chinese in Russia

Abstract

The introduction of the article examines the growing importance of the Chinese language in the Russian educational system, due to the strengthening of economic and geopolitical ties with China. The authors note an increased demand for Chinese-speaking specialists from schools, universities, and businesses, despite continuing problems: a shortage of qualified teachers, a shortage of adapted educational materials, and the lack of uniform standards for assessing knowledge. The section on methods highlights the specifics of teaching Chinese to Russian-speaking students, including the difficulties of mastering tones and hieroglyphs. The authors analyze attempts to introduce interactive techniques, multimedia resources and online platforms, as well as efforts to develop unified educational standards comparable to international ones (for example, the HSK exam). Special attention is paid to the problem of non-adaptation of foreign textbooks. The results of the study indicate positive trends: the expansion of the network of Confucius Institutes, the increase in academic exchanges, the development of joint educational programs with Chinese universities and the growing demand for business-oriented courses. The authors note the influence of cultural factors (cinema, music) on student motivation and the role of digital technologies (applications, online courses) in individualizing learning. The prospects of early learning in schools and regional development, including distance learning formats to overcome territorial inequality, are discussed. In conclusion, the strategic importance of the Chinese language for Russia in the context of the «turn to the East» is emphasized. The authors conclude that there is a need for systematic support for the training of teaching staff (including internships in China), the development of continuing education programs, updating educational materials, and strengthening interaction between the government, business, and the scientific community. The successful development of the direction is associated with a balance of language training, cultural education and a practice-oriented approach.