Information and Communication Technology in China: Connecting One Billion People for Education

This article provides an overview of the current development of information and communication technology (ICT) utilized in Chinese education since China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO). Specifically, the article describes and discusses the positive impacts ICT has on Chinese basic education (grade one to grade nine), as well as the existing problems in the application of ICT. The article also discusses ICT's application in higher education and the issues that have to be dealt with. The potential for further developing distance education with ICT is considered. In addition, recommendations are made with regard to providing better distance education with ICT. The target audience of this article is policy makers, educators, ICT professionals and researchers.