To further explore and implement the important directives and guiding principles on digitalisation in education set forth by General Secretary Xi Jinping, the Open University of China (OUC)’s Academic Affairs Department, which also functions as the Office of the MOE Vocational Education Steering Committee, hosted a special lecture.

This event featured Han Xibin, a visiting professor, doctoral supervisor, and vice dean of the Institute of Education at Tsinghua University. Gu Xiaohua, the Party branch secretary and dean of the Academic Affairs Department, presided over the meeting.

Han Xibin delivered a lecture titled "Conceptual Framework and Initial Exploration of Digital Governance in Education," in which he seamlessly integrated the concepts of digital governance and education. He approached the subject from two angles: the conceptual framework of digital governance in education and its initial practical applications. In his presentation, Xibin elucidated the concept of big data and the fundamental theory of digital governance. He also examined the interplay between digital governance in education and the modernisation of educational governance, using clear and relatable examples such as traffic signals, hospital registration systems, and government "one-stop" services. Additionally, he provided a comprehensive overview of the practical impacts of digital governance in vocational education.

Han Xibin highlighted three essential points in his presentation. Firstly, digital governance in education represents a significant shift from traditional to modern "educational management." This transformation affects the subject, operational modes, processes, and implementation methods of educational management. Secondly, the core objective of digital governance in education is to refine the business logic and the specifics of each segment. Then, by integrating data throughout all business aspects, we aim to serve teachers and students more effectively. Thirdly, understanding and implementing the principles of “application championed, service first, demonstration leading, and secure operation,” as outlined by Huai Jinpeng, the secretary of the Leading Party Group and minister of the Ministry of Education of China, is vital. It is imperative to actively participate in the research, development, and application of educational digitalisation.

In line with the specific traits of open education, Han Xibin also engaged with attendees in discussions about the present challenges and issues confronting the digitalisation and digital governance in the education sector, particularly within open universities.

Representatives from the Party branches of the Academic Affairs Department, the School of Art, the Lifelong Education Research Institute, and the Information Technology Department, along with various members of the community, totaling approximately 60 individuals, attended the meeting.

By Liang Chunhui, OUC