From robots to reality: China's classrooms get an AI makeover

For the new school year that began in September, Chinese education authorities implemented ambitious AI literacy programs in primary and secondary schools nationwide, a move that aligns with the national "AI+" strategy.

In Beijing, the capital city, all schools are required to provide a basic AI course with at least eight class hours per academic year. East China's Hangzhou offers a more comprehensive curriculum, requiring at least ten hours annually across all grade levels, from elementary to high school. The curriculum is tiered to match students' development, starting with hands-on activities for young children and advancing to an understanding of core principles for older students.

AI is also transforming the classroom environment. In some schools, AI assistant robots are co-teaching lessons to increase student engagement, while smart platforms help teachers grade homework more efficiently and give personalized feedback. Some classrooms are even using brain-sensing headbands and AI analysis to help teachers adapt their methods in real-time.

To support this transition, authorities are emphasizing teacher training and partnerships. Hangzhou has established a framework to improve teachers' AI skills and is promoting collaboration among schools, universities, and tech companies.

This effort is part of a nationwide push to prepare students for a future shaped by AI and to make AI education universally accessible by 2030.