The Convergence of Community Education

This chapter provides an overview of community education in China. It traces the history of Chinese community education which dates back to 1986, when the Social Education Committee was established at Zhenru Secondary School in Shanghai. This chapter outlines the policy initiatives, educational reforms and provides a description of the various models of community education, viewed as important drivers of economic and social development. It also presents the major issues and challenges that must be overcome in order to promote community education. This chapter gives readers a comprehensive understanding of the construction of learning cities and the implementation of lifelong learning that promotes inclusion and equity and the efforts to narrow the urban-rural disparity gap. It finally concludes with future directions for achieving educational sustainability.