Computer Explorers, a Houston-based child technology education franchisor, is expanding to the world's most populous country with a project that meets Chinese demand for U.S.-style creative and innovative education.

Computer Explorers has licensed its curriculum and trademarks to XiXi (CeCe) Qian. Qian, who was born in China, came to Texas as a high school exchange student and remained to pursue her education. She valued her U.S. education, wanted Chinese children to experience it, and purchased the license to offer CE's curriculum in China.

"It is very important for children to start at a young age to learn technology," Qian said. "In China, learning centers are strict and more serious. The way Computer Explorers teaches with technology is fun, but at the same time kids are learning."

Following a model similar to Computer Explorers Malaysia, Qian will establish several after-school learning centers specializing in hands-on, creative technology education. The first center is expected to open in early 2012 in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, a large city near Shanghai.

"The expansion puts Computer Explorers in seven countries in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The new venture will meet Chinese educators' desire for education that encourages creative thinking and problem-solving, a philosophy more common in the U.S.," said Larry Perkins, CE's Director of International Development.

"In China and other Far East countries, students traditionally have learned in highly structured classroom environments with an emphasis on practical knowledge and memorization," Perkins said. "Studies show that U.S. students fare better in imaginative settings that encourage creativity and innovative thinking geared at solving difficult problems."

Qian is well versed in U.S. education philosophy. She received her Bachelor's Degree in electrical and computer engineering from Baylor University and subsequently earned a Master's Degree in electrical engineering from California State University.

GuoMaoJiaHe Interior Design Inc., a large diversified firm that has committed to improving education for the children of China, is Qian's partner in the venture.

"We expect these centers to be a huge success," said Computer Explorers CEO President Deb Evans. "They'll provide Chinese students with a new approach to learning that will complement their existing skills and engage their imaginations."