13. E-learning and E-training

　　With the rapid development of technology and people’s demand for education mounting, so-called e-learning, or on-line long distance education, has become very popular and important in China. In some areas, e-learning has played a role traditional classroom education cannot accomplish.

　　Approximately 90 per cent of the world’s new information is stored and retrieved in English. It is vital for China to use the Olympics as a catalyst to boost English acquisition to prepare itself or the digital revolution. To prepare for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, at least 6 million Chinese, including staff for the organizing committee, and in the service, retail, police, volunteer, technical and medical support sectors, reportedly need to improve their English language skills.

　　E-learning breaks down the barriers of time and location, integrating education resources. When compared with traditional ways of teaching and learning, it is far more cost-effective for both the teachers and the students.

　　14. Teacher-centered or Student-centered Class (233 words)

　　Today in China there exists side by side two different teaching patterns: A teacher-oriented class and a student-oriented class. And the differences between them are obvious.

　　A teacher-oriented class is a typical traditional passive class. No doubt it is a natural product of the deep-rooted examination-oriented education. And there are several characteristics in this kind of class. To begin with, a teacher is the main actor on the stage and all the students are passive audience. Besides, he imparts knowledge to his students in the same way he pours water into a container, never bothering to ignite the sparks or enthusiasm in students.

　　In contrast, a student-centered class is a kind of new active class, resulting from the quality-oriented education system. Naturally, it’s a newcomer of the education reform. The main characteristic of this kind of class is that the teacher and students are all actors and all the students are actively involved in the classroom activities. Besides, the teacher always tries to instill a love of learning in students and stimulates their interest. As a result, students always find it a pleasure to sit in class, asking questions, discussing or even arguing with the teacher.

　　It goes without saying that I prefer the active student-oriented class, not merely because it’s fun, but because it can make may knowledge permanent. . What’s more important, it can develop my creative mind and learning ability.