From smart campuses to algorithmic scoring: Analyzing the policy logic of AI governance in China’s basic education

In recent years, China has promoted the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in basic education as part of its “smart education” strategy. This paper looks at how AI is used not only as a tool for teaching but also as part of a wider system of educational governance. It studies national policies, local pilot projects, and company reports to understand how AI fits into China’s education goals. The paper uses theories of governmentality, technogovernance, and algorithmic power to explain the logic behind this trend. The findings show that AI is changing how schools work, how teachers teach, and how students are evaluated. While AI helps with efficiency, it may also reduce flexibility and raise questions about fairness. This paper calls for more attention to the values and rules behind smart education and how they affect teachers and students in everyday school life.