What are the Determinants Influencing Equity in Art Education under Compulsory Education in China?

Educational equity means that students of diverse regional, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds have equal access to adequate educational resources and opportunities. Art education in China serves as a crucial medium for cultural transmission and fosters students' holistic development. However, at the compulsory school level, its accessibility and fairness are influenced by multiple factors. Based on an extensive literature review, this study identifies three key determinants: the urban-rural divide, socioeconomic factors, and policy and structural constraints. In terms of educational resources, urban schools have significantly more advantages over rural schools. Additionally, family income and cultural capital shape students’ access to art education, often favoring those from higher socio-economic backgrounds. At the policy level, the prioritization of exam-oriented education often marginalizes art education, reducing instructional time and funding allocation. While certain policies have expanded access to education, they have not effectively improved the quality and equity of art education in China.