Call for a Paradigm Shift Towards School-Based Curriculum in China’s Compulsory Education Setting

Abstract

This article proposes a paradigm shift towards a school-based curriculum (SBC) in China's compulsory education system, drawing lessons from international experiences in Taiwan and the UK. The current centralized, test-oriented curriculum in China is seen as inadequate in addressing local needs and promoting holistic student development. The authors advocate for decentralizing curriculum development to empower schools and teachers, encouraging active learning, critical thinking, and community engagement. Taiwan's localized and flexible curriculum and the UK's Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) serve as models for implementing SBC in China. The article outlines a comprehensive framework involving policymakers, schools, teachers, students, and curriculum specialists, emphasizing the need for professional development, resource allocation, and stakeholder engagement. The proposed framework aims to create a more adaptable, engaging, and effective educational system that prepares students for lifelong learning and active citizenship.