Beijing Makes AI Education Compulsory in Schools, First in China
Beijing has become China’s first provincial-level region to mandate artificial intelligence education. Starting this semester, all primary and secondary schools in the capital will incorporate AI into their curricula. This groundbreaking initiative affects more than 1,400 schools across the city. Students from primary through senior high school will receive at least eight class hours of AI education.
The program follows the release of official guidelines outlining the AI education framework. These documents provide detailed curriculum structures and teaching methodologies. The implementation varies by grade level, ensuring age-appropriate learning experiences. This systematic approach represents a major step in integrating high-tech learning into China’s national education framework.
Hands-On Learning Approach
At Haidian District Experimental Primary School, AI education incorporates interactive, project-based lessons. Students from Grades 1 to 6 engage with AI concepts tailored to their understanding levels. Younger pupils learn basic AI principles through simple activities and games. Older students work on developing smart hardware applications and coding projects.
Two sixth-grade programming club members expressed enthusiasm for their AI projects. Miao Ruoyi and Fang Xi enjoy the hands-on coding challenges and creative problem-solving. Their experiences demonstrate the program’s success in making complex technological concepts accessible and engaging for young learners.
Preparing for Human-Machine Collaboration
Guangqumen Middle School has established a continuous AI curriculum spanning primary to high school. The program focuses on preparing students for a future of human-machine collaboration. Primary students encounter AI content integrated into information technology classes starting in third grade. Middle school students take semester-long courses on AI principles and applications.
Older students design “intelligent study companions” using generative AI tools. High school students can pursue specialized AI tracks developed with prestigious partners. These advanced programs explore cutting-edge topics including embodied intelligence and brain-computer interfaces. The comprehensive approach ensures students develop relevant skills for tomorrow’s technological landscape.
