TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Amid disputes over the reduction of classical Chinese texts in the new Curriculum Guidelines, the Ministry of Education (MOE) clarified on Friday that these guidelines still uphold traditional virtues. They are designed to encourage students to internalize and apply these values in daily life, focusing on competency-based learning.
The controversy surfaced on Monday when Chu Kuei-chih, a Chinese literature teacher, criticized the curriculum reduction at a press conference, citing the exclusion of Gu Yanwu's writings on "integrity."
Chu labeled the new Curriculum Guidelines as "shameless," questioning the influence of politicians' behavior on students' moral discernment.
In response, the MOE stated the curriculum maintains traditional virtues like righteousness and integrity. It covers a range of eras, authors, and genres to enhance students' communication skills and rational thinking.
Referencing the 2022 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) survey by the OECD, the MOE attributed Taiwanese students' strong competencies to the new curriculum, which teaches essential life values and attitudes.
The MOE also emphasized that the Mandarin Chinese curriculum is designed to develop students' articulation and rationalization abilities, with materials spanning various periods, ideologies, and literary forms, including Taiwanese modern and world Chinese literature, translations, and literary discourse.
Further clarifying, the MOE assured that classical Chinese has not been abandoned. High school students will study classical Chinese texts, averaging 35% to 45% over three years, representing diverse epochs, authors, and genres.
Critics have suggested that Taiwan's Chinese and history education lacks critical thinking training. The focus of Taiwanese education is shifting towards developing such skills, promoting independent learning and cultural depth.