Shanghai unveils measures to improve education

A series of measures will be rolled out in Shanghai to improve school education in aspects such as homework, online learning, after-class care services and integrated school development, said Yang Zhenfeng, a representative from the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, at a press briefing on Wednesday.

Yang noted that the city will continue to reduce the academic burden on students through measures such as limiting the amount of homework and advising schools to make homework-related information public.

"Pressure should be alleviated on the premise of increased effectiveness," Yang said. "We will make systematic and targeted efforts to build a quality and equitable education system."

Upgraded online courses will be launched in the upcoming semester and the content will revolve around core concepts and address difficulties often faced by students. Customized tutoring services will also be offered to those in need through virtual classrooms.

According to the commission, primary and secondary schools will continue providing after-class care services for at least two hours on weekdays.

In addition, the city will strive to build closer teaching communities through the exchange of teaching faculties as well as joint research and evaluation so as to improve overall education. A total of 57 such teaching communities will be established in Shanghai within this year, covering 298 primary and secondary schools, the commission announced.

Yang said the commission will take further steps to forge closer bonds between teachers and students. To achieve this, each teacher will be responsible for no more than 15 students.

Mei Linhan contributed to this story.