With the continuous advancement of China’s scientific research capabilities in recent years, there’s been a growing interest, both domestically and abroad, in China’s scientific research landscape. Many Western publishers, academic journals, research societies, and universities are enthusiastic about forging connections and collaborations with the Chinese academic community. In this article, we’ll delve into the nuances of Chinese research culture and explore strategies for international organizations to effectively engage with Chinese researchers. Furthermore, we’ll illustrate successful instances of cooperation between Western and Chinese research initiatives, offering practical insights and recommendations.
See also: The Digital Development of China’s Academic Publishing Industry
Important Cultural Practices in Chinese Academia
The Chinese academic community possesses a rich cultural heritage and distinctive research practices, characterized by three key traits.
(1) Relationship Culture, or Guanxi
In China, personal relationships play a crucial role in all spheres, including scientific research. Cultivating strong relationships is paramount for securing resources and fostering collaboration.
(2) Collectivism
Chinese research culture places a strong emphasis on collectivism, reverence for academic authority, and teamwork. Individual accomplishments are often intertwined with the achievements of the broader research team.
(3) Emphasis on Practical Value
China’s scientific research culture prioritizes practicality and application, with a focus on addressing real-world problems. Consequently, many research endeavors exhibit a strong practical orientation and relevance.
See also: Building an Academic Brand in China: The Importance of Baidu
How Publishers or Journals Have Successfully Leveraged Chinese Cultural Practices
Several international organizations successfully implemented effective collaboration with Chinese academics. Here we will list three examples.
- Springer Nature
Springer Nature supports the Chinese research community through their locally run Chinese website, journals and broader global publishing portfolio, and thus be able to attract more engagement from Chinese researchers. The locally run Chinese journals specifically target Chinese researchers and provide them with a platform to publish their research results. By 2020, Springer Nature recruited 56 editorial and publishing employees across their offices in Beijing and Shanghai. In that way, the local staff members can closely engage with local partners to develop their world-class journals. In addition, they partner with Chinese research institutions to organize academic conferences and training activities to promote collaboration between Chinese and international researchers. Springer Nature provides financial and technical support for research projects of Chinese research institutions and researchers through its funding programs and support projects.
- Elsevier
Elsevier has established a long-term and stable relationship with the Chinese research community by providing publication platforms, collaborative research, academic conferences and training, open access policies, and support for Chinese research projects. Elsevier has launched several initiatives to promote collaboration between Chinese and international researchers. Elsevier has also established many collaborative research projects with Chinese research institutions. For example, Elsevier and the Chinese Academy of Sciences have established the CAS – Elsevier Joint Laboratory to jointly explore and develop new research evaluation methods, and establish a research evaluation system that is more suitable for China’s academic environment.
- Wiley
Wiley has collaborated with Chinese research institutions and published China-based academic journals, such as the Chinese Medical Journal and InfoMat. Wiley also works with Chinese research institutions to support collaborative research projects. These projects span multiple disciplines, such as life sciences and engineering. Additionally, Wiley has collaborated with Chinese research institutions to develop several digital platforms to provide academic resources and services. For example, Wiley has partnered with the Chinese Academy of Sciences to launch Wiley Online Library · China, a comprehensive academic resource platform for Chinese researchers. In addition, Wiley offers digital subscriptions and online learning solutions to meet the information needs of researchers.
See also: WeChat for Academia: 5 Western Publishers Who Have Created an Online Presence in China
Tips for Building a Relationship With Chinese Researchers
In order to build a strong relationship with the Chinese research community, publishers and journals need to consider these key factors:
- Understand the Chinese concept of time and relationships
In China, time is often viewed as more flexible than rigid. So, it’s wise to be flexible with appointment times. Equally important is understanding and respecting the value of relationships within Chinese culture. Building strong interpersonal connections with Chinese researchers is essential. Long-term cooperation thrives on mutual understanding, trust, and open communication.
- Embrace Chinese Collectivism
Chinese research culture places a high emphasis on teamwork and collective achievements. When collaborating with Chinese researchers, respect their collectivist values. Actively engage in team collaborations and cultivate positive working relationships with team members.
- Focus on practicality
Chinese researchers prioritize the practical applications of research results and problem-solving capabilities. Therefore, be attentive to their practical needs, working together to address real-world issues and promote scientific and technological innovation.
- Provide Localized Support
To facilitate productive collaboration with Chinese researchers, ensure you offer an appropriate local academic environment and resources tailored to their requirements. This includes advanced experimental equipment and technical support, a welcoming international academic setting, and a wealth of academic resources and services.
- Encourage International Engagement
Chinese researchers highly value international exchanges and cooperation. By engaging in exchanges and collaborative ventures with foreign researchers, they gain access to a broader range of academic resources and research opportunities. Therefore, actively promote international exchanges and cooperation, offering diverse options and resources for Chinese researchers to expand their global collaborations.
Conclusion
Achieving a strong and fruitful collaboration with the Chinese research community hinges on a profound grasp of their cultural dynamics, such as the concept of guanxi, collectivism, and the practical orientation of Chinese researchers. To excel in such partnerships, international organizations should prioritize several key factors: respecting China’s flexible view of time and the significance of relationships, aligning with China’s values of teamwork and shared accomplishments, addressing the practical requirements of Chinese researchers, offering an appropriate academic environment and necessary resources, and actively fostering international exchanges and cooperation.
