On November 1st, the Shadow Education SIG held a seminar featuring the capstone research projects of two CGSED program graduates, Mr. Xie Yifan and Mr. Hu Shenglin, attracted 19 participants from around the world. This online session also provided an inspiring opportunity for new master’s students to learn from their accomplished peers.

Yifan presented his research on the rise of memory courses in China’s shadow education sector. His study assessed these courses’ effectiveness on Grade 9 students in subjects like Chinese, English, and Science, critically analyzing their practicality and potential implications for future educational reforms. Shenglin followed with his research on the ‘motherhood penalty,’ focusing on the unintended consequences of China’s 2021 Double Reduction Policy in Suzhou. His findings revealed that despite the policy’s aim to reduce educational pressures, mothers have ended up dedicating even more time to their children’s education, intensifying their daily challenges.

The seminar offered an insightful glimpse into the diverse and impactful research conducted by CGSED students, fostering an exchange of ideas among attendees and sparking discussions on educational trends and policy effects.