E-learning platforms of Chinese universities: revolution in digital education

chiny24.com 7 months ago

In fresh years, China has become 1 of the global leaders in the field of digital education. Chinese universities, supported by government initiatives and dynamic technological development, have introduced advanced e-learning platforms that change the way students get knowledge. In this article we will look at the most crucial e-learning platforms utilized by Chinese universities, their functionality, the advantages and challenges they face. All information is based on reliable sources to be exchanged at the end of the text.

Introduction to e-learning in China

E-learning in China is developing at a staggering rate, resulting in a combination of respective factors: fast technological progress, a increasing number of net users and government support. The Chinese government has been investing in digitalization of education for years, resulting in the creation of many modern e-learning platforms. According to the China net Network Information Center (CNNIC) study of 2023, more than 1.2 billion Chinese have net access, which represents a immense possible for online education development.

Key e-learning platforms in China

1. XuetangX

XuetangX is 1 of the most popular e-learning platforms in China, founded by Tsinghua University in 2013. The platform offers online courses (MOOC – Massive Open Online Courses) from various fields specified as computer science, business, discipline and humanities. XuetangX cooperates with many prestigious universities, both Chinese and foreign, allowing access to high-quality educational materials.

Functionality:

Courses conducted by professors from the best universities.
The anticipation to get certificates after completing the course.
Interactive quizzes, discussion forums and homework.
Access to materials in Chinese and English.

Benefits:

High quality courses.
The ability to learn anywhere and at any time.
Certificates recognised by employers.

Challenges:

Limited number of courses in English.
Necessity to have a unchangeable net connection.

Source: XuetangX authoritative Website

2. Chinese MOOC (Courser in China)

Coursera, a global e-learning platform, collaborates with Chinese universities specified as Beijing University and Fudan University to offer online courses for Chinese students. This platform is tailored to the needs of local users, offering courses in Chinese and taking into account the specificities of the Chinese educational market.

Functionality:

Courses from various fields, including technology, business and social sciences.
Certificates can be obtained.
Technical and technological support.

Benefits:

Access to global educational resources.
Ability to learn Chinese.
Flexibility in the choice of courses.

Challenges:

Some courses can be paid.
Necessity to have an account on the Courser platform.

Source: Coursera China

3. iCourse

iCourse is an e-learning platform developed by the Ministry of Education of China, which offers online courses from over 100 Chinese universities. This platform is peculiarly popular among students who want to complete their cognition or prepare for exams.

Functionality:

Courses from various fields, including science, humanities and method sciences.
Ability to participate in live lectures.
Access to educational materials in the form of video, text and quizzes.

Benefits:

Free access to most courses.
High quality educational materials.
Possible interaction with lecturers and another students.

Challenges:

Limited number of courses in English.
The request to have an account on the platform.

Source: iCourse authoritative Website

4. Tencent Classroom

Tencent, 1 of the largest technological giants in China, besides entered the e-learning market, offering the Tencent schoolroom platform. This platform is peculiarly popular among students who want to learn programming, digital marketing and another technological skills.

Functionality:

Courses in IT, business and creativity.
Ability to participate in live webinars.
Access to educational materials in the form of video and text.

Benefits:

Technical support from Tencent.
The ability to learn modern skills.
Flexibility in the choice of courses.

Challenges:

Some courses are paid.
The request to have an account on the platform.

Source: Tencent schoolroom authoritative Website

Advantages of e-learning platforms in China

E-learning platforms in China offer many benefits for both students and lecturers. First of all, they let access to advanced quality educational materials from anywhere in the world. This allows students from smaller cities or agrarian areas to learn from the best universities without having to move.

In addition, these platforms offer flexibility in learning, allowing students to adjust the pace of learning to their individual needs. Many courses besides offer certifications that are recognised by employers, which increases the chances on the labour market.

E-learning Challenges in China

Despite many advantages, e-learning platforms in China besides face any challenges. 1 of the biggest problems is unequal net access, especially in agrarian regions. Although the government invests in digital infrastructure, there are inactive areas where high-speed net access is restricted.

Another challenge is the quality of courses. Although most platforms offer advanced quality materials, there are besides courses that do not meet student expectations. This requires continuous monitoring and evaluation of the quality of the content offered.

Future of e-learning in China

The future of e-learning in China looks promising. With technological advancement and increasing interest in digital education, e-learning platforms will further develop. The introduction of technologies specified as artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) can further revolutionize the way students get knowledge.

In addition, the Chinese government plans further investment in digitalisation of education, which can contribute to expanding the availability and quality of e-learning platforms. According to China Education Online report, by 2025 the value of the e-learning marketplace in China is expected to scope 1 trillion yuan (about $140 billion).

The e-learning platforms of Chinese universities play a key function in the transformation of education in China. Thanks to them, students from all over the country have access to high-quality educational materials, which contribute to expanding the level of public education. Despite any challenges, the future of e-learning in China looks promising and further technological improvement and government support can further accelerate this process.

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