Engaging with 'China': a dialogue among APJTE editors.

This article explores the challenges faced by Chinese scholars in publishing their research in English-language journals, particularly in the field of education. It discusses the differences in scholarly expectations and norms between Chinese and international scholarship, as well as the political pressures that Chinese researchers face. The article also delves into the debate over critical scholarship on China, with some scholars criticizing the lack of criticality in existing research and others challenging the politicized context of scholarship about Chinese society and education. The authors raise questions about what constitutes "critical" scholarship and how to navigate the complexities of publishing internationally. They also discuss the influence of the global academic publishing industry and its emphasis on competition and visibility. The article aims to foster dialogue and reflection on these issues among scholars and encourages alternative approaches to research and publication. It also highlights the pressure on beginning scholars to publish in order to advance their careers, which can lead to a focus on quantity rather than quality. The article raises concerns about the influence of government policies on educational research and the narrowing of research methodologies. It suggests that the challenges faced in China may not be unique and that the global academic publishing industry and its impact on educational research should be examined. The article emphasizes the importance of democratic values and the need to question political configurations. It also explores the concept of criticality in education and the challenges faced by international students in understanding and engaging with it. The article concludes by calling for a reevaluation of publishing practices and the creation of space for alternative scholarly practices. [Extracted from the article]