Press Releases

MOE to enhance standard Chinese handwriting education

Source: www.moe.gov.cn
2024-10-27

The Ministry of Education (MOE) issued the “Notice on Strengthening Standard Chinese Character Writing Education in Primary and Secondary Schools” (the Notice) this week. These new guidelines aim to advance national language education and promote traditional cultural heritage.

The Notice adheres to principles of student-centered, systematic development and outlines three major goals: 1) fostering correct handwriting methods to improve students’ writing habits; 2) raising students’ awareness of standard character forms and enhancing their handwriting skills; and 3) instilling a deep appreciation for the cultural and historical significance of Chinese characters to bolster students’ cultural confidence and respect for cultural traditions.

The Notice introduces several specific measures, including cultivating sound writing habits to help prevent spinal misalignment and vision strain, guiding students in mastering proper handwriting techniques to improve writing quality and speed, and helping students understand the cultural meaning behind Chinese characters. Activities such as recitation contests and national arts exhibitions will support this initiative. The Notice also urges schools to organize teaching activities incorporating standard Chinese character writing, and encourages teachers to model fine handwriting skills across different writing tools. Additionally, digital technology will be used to modernize standard Chinese writing education, with character writing being included in academic assessments.

According to the Notice, local educational departments need to provide long-term financial and policy support for these efforts, thus ensuring adequate resources and infrastructure in schools to meet ergonomic standards for learning environments. These departments should also address the teacher shortage in standard Chinese writing education.