Research on the Advantages, Shortcomings, and Countermeasures of Current Higher TCM Education

Abstract

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a treasure of China’s traditional medical heritage, embodying the wisdom and cultural depth of the Chinese nation. Higher TCM education shoulders the important responsibility of preserving and advancing TCM, and in today’s context, it offers significant advantages while also facing numerous challenges. Among its strengths are a profound cultural foundation in TCM, utilizing classic texts and unique theories to cultivate students’ TCM thinking and competence; diversified teaching methods that integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines, innovate instructional models, and combine traditional with modern educational approaches; a complete teaching system characterized by professional faculty and advanced facilities; and interdisciplinary integration fostering innovation. However, problems persist, including some students lacking confidence in TCM culture due to the influence of Western medicine concepts and the westernization of the educational model; weak practical teaching where theory dominates, practice time is limited, and there are insufficient bases and instructors; and a shortage of faculty resulting in an imbalanced student-to-teacher ratio and an unreasonable structure. To address these issues, it is recommended to enhance cultural confidence, strengthen faculty development, and optimize practical teaching, thereby promoting the sustainable development of higher TCM education and achieving the shared prosperity of TCM education and the TCM profession.