In alignment with the national strategy to foster education through scientific innovation and talent cultivation, a delegation led by Liu Xuanxuan, deputy secretary of the OUC Party Committee, visited the Institute of Science Education at Beijing Normal University on 22 March 2024.

The delegation comprised members from the Faculty of Education and the Departments of Student Affairs and Teacher Development. The primary goal of the visit was to seek expert consultation and conduct research to explore the establishment and development of a Science Education programme. Warmly welcomed by Zheng Yonghe, the founding dean of the Institute and a distinguished second-level professor, the delegation engaged in productive research discussions. This initiative is part of OUC's commitment to contribute to the national mission of advancing education and fostering innovative pedagogical approaches.

In order to strengthen the foundation for building a strong education system, the OUC is contemplating the introduction of a Science Education major. During the visit, Liu Xuanxuan provided an overview of OUC's history and the ongoing preparations for launching the proposed major. In response, Zheng Yonghe shared valuable insights into the current policy landscape of science education in China and offered strategic recommendations on the feasibility study report and talent cultivation plan associated with the new major.

The discussions between the two parties delved into various key areas, such as: international comparisons of the current status of elementary school science teacher teams, teacher training pathways for elementary school science teachers in China, curriculum design for the Science Education major, interdisciplinary curriculum development, and practical teaching methods.

The participants also visited the Engineering and Technology Education Laboratory, as well as the Scientific Teaching Design and Analysis Laboratory at Beijing Normal University, conducting in-depth research on the latest developments in the field of science education and interdisciplinary learning, as well as teaching instruments and equipment. The research team believes that this investigation will effectively promote the development of the Science Education major at the OUC.

Written by He Jiaqi, OUC
Photos by Institute of Science Education, Beijing Normal University