China Strengthens Science Education in Schools with Comprehensive New Guideline

China Enhances Science Education in Schools

China's Ministry of Education has issued a comprehensive guideline to strengthen science education in primary and secondary schools. The initiative aims to create a more robust and engaging learning environment for students, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for science.

The guideline mandates that each primary school must have at least one science teacher with a master's degree in a STEM field. Additionally, schools must appoint a dedicated vice-principal for science, responsible for leading lectures, collaborating with teachers, developing courses, and supervising student projects. To further bolster the teaching force, the guideline encourages STEM professionals from leading universities and research institutions to take on these vice-principal roles.

The guideline promotes a coordinated science curriculum system that integrates national, local, and school-based content. This approach emphasizes critical thinking, scientific exploration, engineering practices, technology, and the humanities. Interdisciplinary learning projects are encouraged, combining science education with moral, aesthetic, labor, and physical education.

Science education will also be incorporated into after-school activities tailored to students' individual interests and abilities. Activities such as nature observation, scientific exploration, engineering practices, and project research are suggested to make these services more engaging.

The guideline encourages schools to utilize the Smart Education of China platform, which provides digital learning resources for teachers and students. The development and sharing of high-quality digital resources for science education are to be prioritized. Additionally, immersive learning environments powered by intelligent technologies will be implemented to enhance teaching models and improve learning assessments.

The document emphasizes strengthening theoretical research on science education through collaboration among universities, research institutes, and natural science foundations. International exchanges are also encouraged, fostering a global perspective on science education. Teachers are encouraged to engage in research on science education, contributing to the continuous improvement of teaching practices.

The guideline advocates establishing science education and practice bases through partnerships with universities, research institutes, science museums, and technology companies. Schools are urged to organize regular extracurricular scientific activities at these locations, providing students with access to diverse learning environments and resources.

This comprehensive approach to science education aims to cultivate a generation of students with a strong foundation in scientific knowledge and skills, preparing them for future success in STEM fields and beyond.