The Ministry of Education has worked out new policies to further promote quality education that highlights the cultivation of independent thinking, creative spirit and practical ability, said a senior official.
Speaking at a national conference on education in Fuzhou, capital of east China's Fujian Province, Li Lianning, director of Basic Education Department of the ministry, explained the reform measures for primary and middle school education.
Beginning from next year, primary schools in large and medium-sized cities will start new types of English course, which focuses on students' language communication ability and a more flexible teaching timetable.
Primary schools will gradually launch courses in law, psychology and information technology in the coming years, Li said.
The ministry has also formulated a catalogue to regulate teaching appliance and books of students in a bid to further relieve the burden of students.
Li said the Chinese government will invest 600 million yuan (US$72.55 million) each year to construct centers for students to facilitate quality education.
(chinadaily.com.cn 11/13/2000)
