Advancing Farmers’ Vocational Education: Innovative Strategies and Practices for Integrating Financial Literacy Enhancement in China

Abstract

This study proposes an innovative approach to vocational education for farmers in China, integrating financial literacy enhancement as a key component. Recognising the critical role of financial competence in rural economic development, we address the current disconnect between traditional educational methods and the practical needs of rural residents in the context of China’s rapidly transforming agricultural sector. Our research introduces a novel educational model grounded in embodied cognition theory, designed to bridge the gap between abstract financial concepts and the lived experiences of farmers. The proposed model emphasises experiential learning and contextualised instruction, featuring a multi-stage process that includes observation of daily agricultural and financial activities, hands-on practical training, conceptual explanation linked to farm operations, and applied learning in real agricultural contexts. This approach prioritises body-environment interactions and practical reflection, leveraging farmers’ daily experiences to enhance both vocational skills and financial literacy. Key innovations include the use of body metaphor mapping to explain complex financial concepts, the integration of financial education into broader agricultural training, and the creation of embodied learning environments that simulate real-world farming scenarios. The model aims to simultaneously improve farmers’ professional competencies and financial decision-making abilities, fostering a more holistic approach to rural vocational education. Our study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with agricultural educators and quantitative surveys of farmers to develop and refine the model. Initial pilot implementations in select rural areas of China have shown promising results in improving farmers’ financial knowledge and decision-making skills. These findings offer practical insights for educators, policymakers, and agricultural extension services, demonstrating how vocational training can be reimagined to address the multifaceted needs of rural communities in China. By integrating financial literacy into broader vocational education, this approach has the potential to enhance farmers’ overall economic resilience and contribute to sustainable rural development. The study paves the way for more effective, contextually relevant educational strategies that can empower farmers with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly complex agricultural and financial landscape.