Lecturer In China Goes Viral For Offering Courses On Adulting To Students
Where was this course when I was in school?
A university in Nanjing, China, is tackling the age-old question of "how to adult" with a unique and surprisingly popular course
Image via China Daily
Lecturer Fu Yiqiang, 27, has been teaching the "Guide to Adult Life" elective course at the Nanjing University of Media and Communication since September last year.
The course is taught two hours a week and is designed to equip students with the practical knowledge — including basic cooking and labour laws — to navigate the real world.
Instead of textbooks and abstract theories, however, Fu's classroom features sizzling pans and slideshows analysing real-life photos to help students make informed decisions about renting a home, among others.
Image via @厨子老师傅英俊 (Douyin)
He designed the course after realising that many students were graduating with flying colours but possessed zero practical life skills. "We were always told to focus on studying," he explains, "But no one taught us how to actually live.
"You learn through trial and error and often get hurt along the way. I'm not an expert but I hope I can help you," he said.
The course covers a wide range of topics, divided into four main sections, including daily essentials, career basics, interpersonal relationships, and basic mental health
Slides introducing the modules in the course. From top left (clockwise): Daily Essentials, Introduction to the Workplace, Health & Safety, and Interpersonal Relationships.
Image via QQ News
From hospital medical procedures and personal finance to basic cooking and labour law, Fu's course has become a hit among students.
According to China Daily, he researched reliable courses and even attended online classes to ensure his lessons resonated with his students.
With nearly double the intended number of students vying for a spot in his classroom, Fu also shares clips of his lectures on social media platforms like Bilibili and Douyin, where his videos have amassed millions of views.
"I believe this course meets the real needs of students," Fu said. "University education isn't just about acquiring knowledge; it's about developing critical thinking and learning how to live a fulfilling life."
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