The Current Status and Trends of STEM Talent Cultivation in Chinese Higher Education Institutions: Based on a Holistic Analysis Model of STEM Programs

Abstract

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) encompasses the systematic education of interdisciplinary talent with innovative spirit and practical skills, spanning from basic education to higher education. Current STEM education in China is thriving at the basic education level, while higher education is increasingly focusing on STEM talent cultivation. Drawing on empirical research from the Yangtze River Delta Education Modernization Monitoring and Evaluation Project, this study integrated technologies, including large language models, to build a holistic analysis model for STEM talent cultivation in Chinese higher education. The model enables a systematic analysis of the scale of STEM talent cultivation, disciplinary structure, regional differences, and development trends in Chinese higher education institutions (HEIs). Evidently, there is an urgent need for China to establish a holistic planning framework for STEM education. It is necessary to implement initiatives to enhance the quality of STEM talent cultivation, guide regions and HEIs in adopting differentiated development paths, and establish a monitoring, evaluation, and guidance system for STEM talent cultivation. These endeavors can provide robust talent support for building a leading country in education.

Keywords

STEM education / higher education / education policy / a leading country in education

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

Higher Education Press