Beijing Introduces 20 Measures to Enhance Science Education in Primary and Secondary Schools
BEIJING, CHINA - The Beijing Municipal Education Commission has announced 20 new measures to boost science education in primary and secondary schools, aiming to foster innovative talent through collaboration with universities, enterprises, and social resources.
The initiative, launched on Friday, emphasizes the integration of in-class and after-school activities to improve the quality of science education. According to Wang Pan, deputy director and spokesperson of the commission, the measures are designed to "spark students' interest in science through play and creativity while enhancing the overall quality of education".
Key components of the initiative include:
- Implementing national science curricula
- Developing STEM model courses
- Ensuring at least 10 percent of class time is dedicated to compulsory interdisciplinary learning
High schools are encouraged to adopt interdisciplinary science courses, and practical exams in middle school physics, chemistry, and biology will become mandatory. Universities and research institutes will also host open days to offer students a taste of laboratory life.
Efforts to improve teaching include requiring primary schools to have at least one science teacher with a master's degree and implementing comprehensive training programs. Inter-regional research alliances will provide professional support to educators.
Businesses are being called upon to contribute social classroom resources and partner with schools, leveraging technology to upgrade science education. Nearly 200 of Beijing's 753 social classroom resource units are focused on technology, providing over 1,000 activity courses each semester.
While parents like Li Chunlian see the developments as a welcome change, others may be skeptical about the feasibility and impact of these new measures. Nonetheless, the initiative is set to transform science education in Beijing's schools and empower young minds for a brighter future.
"A great development. My son loves visiting AI labs and using VR facilities through his school's science club," exclaimed an overjoyed Li Chunlian.