Key document eyes major improvement in compulsory education

Curiosity & creativity

China has set the targets of establishing itself as one of the most innovative countries by 2020 and a leading innovator by 2030 before realizing the objective of becoming a world-leading power in science and technology by 2049.

To realize the goals, the guideline stressed that efforts should be made to protect student curiosity and imagination, arouse their interest in learning, and encourage them to be more creative and innovative.

Heuristic and interactive methods in teaching are encouraged to inspire students to think actively, ask questions and explore independently, the document said.

Li Runyue, a teacher at a Kunming-based primary school, said reform in the exam and evaluation system was a prerequisite for the curiosity initiative, which required time and opportunity for students to think and explore to cultivate their interest in learning.

The reform will also change the performance evaluation standards from local authorities to schools and student development, according to Feng Hongrong, an official with the municipal education authority of Beijing.

For example, schools will not be assessed by exam scores but overall student development, school burden and social reputation, Feng said.

More support to teachers

The guideline demands "high-quality and professional" teaching personnel, proposing more training to strengthen teachers' teaching fundamentals and work ethics, as well as improved salaries and benefits.

More favorable policies in public service sectors, including physical examinations, vacations, tourism and housing, will be rolled out for teachers, said Lyu Yugang, a senior official with the Ministry of Education.

Average salaries of teachers in compulsory education schools shall be no lower than the average salaries of civil servants in the same region, according to the guideline.

More benefits will be given to teachers working in rural, remote and impoverished areas, Lyu said, adding that a better merit pay scheme will also be introduced.

Liu Xiya, headmaster of a Chongqing-based primary school, said the guidelines greatly inspired her fellow teachers at the grassroots level and responded to public expectations.

"Given the current excessive workload, what we need most is a guarantee to the right of rest and leisure," said Li Runyue, a teacher in Kunming.