The Shenzhen Program was a groundbreaking event in which the Chinese government sent educators from Shenzhen City to Concordia University Irvine  for training. Shenzhen, directly across the border from Hong Kong, is one of the fastest growing economic centers in Asia. The Chinese educators not only received in-depth instruction but have also spent time observing local Orange County schools and participating in educational programs at museums and various institutes around the Los Angeles area. This three-month intensive “immersion experience” gave them an opportunity to receive a well-rounded education in practical teaching methods, classroom management strategies, as well as a taste of American culture.  CUI hosted nine of these cohorts, serving about 400 teachers and administrators from October 2003 - December 2005.