The Research of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Courses in Contemporary Chinese Railway Higher Vocational Education: A Specific Reference with L Vocational College

Abstract

Railway Higher Vocational Colleges (RHVC) play a vital role in cultivating skilled talent for the national rail transit industry. With the continuous advancement of modern rail transit technologies, integrating Innovation and Entrepreneurship (IAE) education into vocational training has become essential. IAE education supports the national goal of building an innovative society, enhances educational quality, and addresses employment challenges faced by graduates. This study examines how teachers and students perceive the reform of IAE courses in RHVCs, with a focus on course objectives, content, practical activities, and evaluation systems. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research involved a questionnaire survey of 357 students and 10 teachers, supplemented by interviews. Key findings include: (1) Both teachers and students agree on the overall objectives of IAE courses, although teachers emphasize the development of students' innovative thinking.(2) Both groups recognize the importance of aligning course content with student interests and needs, with teachers favoring modular teaching approaches. (3) Students express concem over limited opportunities for hands-on innovation and entrepreneurship practice, while teachers highlight the need for increased investment in off-campus training facilities.(4) Regarding course evaluation, both groups stress the importance of assessing problem-solving skills, and teachers advocate for diverse evaluation subjects, content, and methods. Based on these insights, the study proposes aligning course objectives with current industry standards, integrating industry-relevant content with IAE, expanding practical learning opportunities, and diversifying evaluation mechanisms. These recommendations aim to enhance the effectiveness and relevance of IAE education in RHVCs, fostering talent suited to the evolving rail transit sector.