Feedback Loops and Policy Evolution: China’s Burden Reduction Revisited through Tools and Narratives

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 3:45 pm - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Double Reduction, Multiple Realities: Policy Implementation, Adaptation, and Impact in China’s Education System

Abstract

Drawing on policy feedback theory, this study examines the long-term evolution of China’s burden reduction policy in basic education. Using a novel “tools-narrative-feedback” framework, it argues that policy change unfolds not linearly but through recursive feedback loops. Based on qualitative analysis of policy documents and historical cases, the study identifies four distinct stages of policy development. It shows how early reliance on command-based tools and oversimplified “hero-victim” narratives produced strong resource and interpretive feedback, prompting a shift toward the “Double Reduction” policy’s integrated tools and more sophisticated narrative framing. While diversification of tools and narratives has advanced, persistent implementation challenges remain. The study concludes that strengthening feedback mechanisms and improving tool-narrative alignment are essential for achieving high-quality, equitable education reform.

Authors

• Jia Li, East China Normal University

• Zhenfei Peng, East China Normal University