Sociology of Education in China in the New Era: Review and Prospects (2012–2022)

Abstract

Purpose This study provides an overview of the changes and developments of the sociology of education in China as it enters the new era as well as its future outlook. Design/Approach/Methods This study combed and analyzed research in the field of the sociology of education in China during the period from 2012 to 2022 on three issues—educational fairness, rural education, and educational reform—to clarify the field's research characteristics and trends. Findings In the new era, scholarship on the sociology of education has shifted to focus on achieving high-quality education, modernization, and digitization as new avenues for promoting educational fairness, rural education, and educational reform. As a result, research on the sociology of education in China has employed broader perspectives, adopted a more reflexive approach toward research objects, and embraced more humanistic values. Originality/Value This study compiles research on the sociology of education in China in the new era and identifies that the field is moving toward a highly integrative approach. The findings provide useful references for learning and understanding the sociology of education in China.