Managing Continuing Education in the Digital Age: A Case Study of Online Programs in China

Yang Li

doi:10.71204/gv0jjc72

Authors

Yang Li University of Electronic Science and Technology of China Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71204/gv0jjc72

Keywords:

Continuing Education, Online Learning, Lifelong Learning, Digital Age, Adult Education, Educational Policy

Abstract

The digital age has profoundly transformed continuing education, especially in China where online programs have expanded opportunities for adult learners. Continuing education – alternative higher education pathways for adults – has been part of China’s system since the 1950s, but gained new prominence after the 1980s economic reforms. This article adopts a theoretical review and case study approach. We analyze policy documents, recent statistics, and scholarly studies from the last five years to examine how China manages continuing education in the digital era. Key sources include government guidelines, national platforms, and empirical research on online learning outcomes and learner experiences. We find that China’s continuing education sector has undergone massive digital expansion. Online programs now enroll millions of adult learners, supported by government initiatives like the Smart Education of China platform launched in 2020. During the Corona Virus Disease pandemic, a nationwide “Classes Suspended but Learning Continues” campaign moved education online, accelerating digital adoption in continuing education. By 2021, online and open education students comprised roughly one-quarter of all higher education enrollments. Performance data indicate that well-managed online instruction can yield equal or even improved academic outcomes for learners. However, challenges such as quality assurance, digital divides, and varied student engagement remain. China’s case demonstrates that with strong policy support and technological infrastructure, large-scale online continuing education can be achieved, expanding access to lifelong learning. Effective management in the digital age requires a shift from quantitative expansion to qualitative improvement. China is implementing reforms to standardize programs, ensure a blend of online/offline learning, and align continuing education with national development needs. This study offers insights for other countries on balancing innovation with oversight in continuing education.

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