Since the end of 1990s, science and technology innovation has played a huge part in driving social development principally due to advances in science education over the years. Therefore, countries which take a lead in science and technology attach great importance to science education, which is a priority for the development of education. Science education is a fundamental approach not only to improve citizens’ scientific literacy and social development but also to guarantee the construction of innovation-oriented nation. In June, 1999, Decision on Deepening the Educational Reform and Propelling the Overall Development of Quality Education was issued by the Central Committee of Communist Party of China (CPC) and the State Council; since then, there have been a serials of policy documents sprung up concerning science education issued by the competent departments. The goal of science education has been shifted from fostering science and technology talents to advancing citizens’ scientific literacy; the concept of science education in China has learned the essence of good practices abroad; and the informal science learning tends to be much more flexible and diverse.

science education  /  scientific literacy  /  informal science learning