Cultivating film appreciation and creativity: the development of public film education in mainland China

Abstract

Promoting citizens’ film literacy has become vital in enhancing public media literacy in today’s ever-changing media environment. The public dissemination of film education has gradually become an established trend in China. At present, film education in mainland China focuses on the development of both film appreciation and creativity, involves a wide range of individuals and diverse educational methods, and spreads primarily across three areas: (1) university education; (2) primary and secondary education; and (3) public education. Despite this, teaching activities remain widely dispersed, regional development lacks balance, and there is a shortage of film and television production courses. This article argues that school-based film education in China should focus upon improving the curriculum system, improving the quality of teachers, and developing courses focused on creativity, while more socially focused film education outside of schools should focus upon establishing industry norms and encouraging healthy competition between institutions.