Fairmont State University is preparing to host its third visiting scholar from the People’s Republic of China, according to Dr. Angela Schwer, chair of the Department of Humanities. Zhang Peng will arrive on September 7 to begin a year-long residency.

Zhang will spend the year researching English language education and English language teacher preparation. He will study how English language teaching is practiced in an English-speaking country and how the knowledge base of language teachers is affected by social and cultural variables.

“We are very happy to welcome another international scholar to study with us and look forward to the ways in which Zhang’s presence will enrich our students and our department by expanding our awareness of global issues and of China’s rich culture,” Schwer said. 

“Professor Zhang’s stay at Fairmont State is part of the important work of our University in fostering an international outlook in our students,” Dr. Amanda Stinemetz, director of Multicultural and International Student Affairs, said. “Cultural exchanges such as Zhang’s residency help people in both countries better understand the other.”

“It is my family’s great honor to be part of Fairmont State. I look forward to making a contribution to the Department of Humanities and to Fairmont State,” Zhang said.

Zhang is a lecturer in English at Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, which is located in Yangling in Shaanxi Province.  He joined the faculty there in July 2001 after graduating from Xi’an International Studies University.  He regularly teaches courses such as Media English Reading, English Language Testing and Assessment, Business English Reading.

Zhang will be accompanied by his wife, Hong Jiangwei, and their daughter, Zhang Xinge.

Zhang is the third Chinese scholar to study at Fairmont State. Han Xiaohuawas the first visiting scholar in 2016-2017. Chen Yi was the second in 2017-18.  All three visiting scholars have been supported by the Chinese Scholarship Council, a non-profit organization seeking to provide financial assistance to Chinese citizens who want to study abroad and to international students who wish to study in China.  Its goal is to furthe