Integrating Aesthetic Education in Science and Engineering Colleges: A New Era Approach in Biotechnological Education

Abstract

The 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China emphasized the strategic importance of rejuvenating the country through science and education, highlighting the role of education in the ambitious project of building a comprehensively socialist modern nation. In this new era, as China continues to reform its higher education system, universities are recognized as critical for nurturing exceptional talent and advancing educational modernization. Aesthetic education, a vital component of this developmental strategy, serves not only to enhance the quality of campus life but also to cultivate well-rounded talents capable of contributing to societal harmony and innovation. This study investigates the implementation and challenges of integrating aesthetic education in science and engineering colleges. It specifically examines the initiatives at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China and China University of Geosciences (Beijing), comparing their approaches to fostering an environment that encourages interdisciplinary and creative thinking among students. By delving into the realities faced by these institutions—spanning student engagement, faculty involvement, and curricular integration—this paper explores effective strategies to enhance aesthetic education frameworks within engineering disciplines. Our findings suggest that robust aesthetic education programs can significantly contribute to the broader educational objectives of engineering majors by promoting a more integrative and holistic educational experience. Recommendations are provided to refine the aesthetic education systems in technical universities, aiming to better align them with the goals of educational modernization and talent cultivation in China’s new era.