JIN DING/CHINA DAILY
To ensure that the next generation can effectively adapt to society through education, it is crucial to promote the holistic development of youths in various aspects of life, including moral, intellectual, physical, and aesthetic fields. However, despite the ongoing discussions on education reform and efforts to strengthen the educational foundation in the country, the focus on fostering social and emotional competence among adolescents remains inadequate.
In China, the promotion of comprehensive human development is a key component of the education policy. As we navigate the challenges of the modern era, the vision outlined in “China’s Educational Modernization 2035” represents a fundamental shift towards prioritizing holistic development.
It is essential to cultivate individuals who excel not only in cognitive abilities but also in non-cognitive skills. Social and emotional competence, often known as soft skills, plays a crucial role in human development. These skills include goal achievement, interpersonal collaboration, and emotional management, contributing to character building, critical thinking, cooperative ability, and innovative capacity in children.
Despite the significance of social and emotional competence, there is a noticeable gap in the education system. The current emphasis on cognitive abilities and exam results has overshadowed the importance of nurturing these noncognitive skills among adolescents. The lack of focus on cultivating social and emotional competence is further exacerbated by the absence of a comprehensive policy and institutional framework to integrate these skills into the education system.
Furthermore, as we address the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence, the need to prioritize the development of social and emotional competence becomes even more critical. In a rapidly evolving landscape of knowledge and skills, social and emotional competence is now considered a foundational competency essential for navigating a complex world. The global shift towards recognizing the pivotal role of social and emotional competence in education is evident in the “affective turn” in educational reform.
Despite global advancements in technology such as AI, Chinese educators need to enhance their efforts in researching and implementing strategies to develop social and emotional intelligence among adolescents. Internationally, there has been a significant focus on social and emotional skills in education reform, with organizations like UNESCO, OECD, the World Bank, and countries like the US, UK, Australia, Germany, and Japan promoting the development of these skills in policy and practice.
While international initiatives have gained momentum, domestic efforts in China are still in their early stages. There is an urgent need to bridge this gap and leverage China’s expertise in this field to enhance the education system.
Looking ahead, several key recommendations can guide us in prioritizing the development of social and emotional competence among adolescents. Firstly, there is a need to enhance research and policy development in this area, integrating it into national education planning. Secondly, schools should take a leading role in cultivating these skills by initiating innovative programs and networks. Lastly, empowering teachers through training programs is crucial for fostering social and emotional competence among adolescents.
In conclusion, prioritizing the development of social and emotional competence among adolescents is not just about educational reform; it is a strategic necessity for shaping a better future. By acknowledging the importance of these skills and implementing targeted measures, we can equip students with the necessary tools to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
It is time to embrace a comprehensive approach to education that nurtures academic excellence, emotional resilience, social competence, and a sense of purpose among children. Only through this approach can we unlock the full potential of the younger generation and build a brighter future for the coming generations.
The author is Party secretary of East China Normal University.
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