Learning Environment, Classroom Participation and Innovative Behavior of Chinese College Students

Abstract – The competition for knowledge and talent has become increasingly fierce in the 21st century. The innovative consciousness and ability of college students are of great significance for improving the level of talent cultivation and enhancing comprehensive national strength in China. Among the many factors that affect the innovative behavior of college students, their learning environment and classroom participation play a positive role in promoting their innovative behavior.

This research aims to explore the relationship between classroom involvement and creative conduct among Chinese university students, how the learning environment influences this interaction. The study technique adopted a literature analysis and empirical inquiry. A total of 425 college students from four colleges and universities in Hebei Province in China consisting of freshmen, sophomores, and juniors from Humanities, Sciences, and Engineering majors were the respondents of the study. Data were collected through a survey questionnaire and were treated using correlational analysis.

Descriptive statistical results show that participants in this study are more inclined to establish good teacher-student relationships in the learning environment, exhibited a more positive state of cognitive participation in classroom participation, and more positive attitudes towards academic learning and thinking patterns in their innovative behavior. In addition, the results of the Mann-Whitney Test found that there were differences in the three variables at the grade level, majors and family location. Students from cities and lower grades have a better learning environment; Science majors, and lower grade students have more active classroom participation; Boys, younger students, science majors, and urban students have better innovative behaviors. In addition, correlation analysis indicates a highly significant correlation between these three variables.

Keywords – Learning Environment, Classroom Participation, Innovative Behavior