Introduction to the National Engineering Research Center for  Educational Big Data

Founded in 2017 with approval from China’s National Development and Reform Commission, the National Engineering Research Center for Educational Big Data is China’s top institution focused on using big data to improve education. It is the only national-level center in the country dedicated exclusively to

research and development in this field. In 2021, the Center was officially included in China’s national network of engineering research centers, confirming its key role in supporting the country’s science and technology development.

Following China’s strategy for digital transformation in education, the Center carries out advanced research in intelligent education to meet the changing needs of schools and learners. Our work focuses on six main areas: setting standards for Educational Big Data; building systems to understand learning environments and track student progress; enabling better data integration and sharing; improving modeling and data analysis in education; supporting smart decision-making and management in schools; and creating intelligent educational services using data visualization.

We run nine master’s and doctoral programs across subjects such as pedagogy, educational technology, computer science, software engineering, and AI in education. Thousands of graduates have earned degrees in science, education, and engineering through these programs. Our unique approach to talent development connects academic research with industry needs and classroom practice. This model helped us win the 2018 National Teaching Achievement Grand Prize, the highest honor in Chinese education, for our groundbreaking work in Educational Big Data. Our success has also helped Central China Normal University earn recognition as a national First-Class Discipline in education.

Our team is our greatest asset. With more than 300 researchers and engineers, we have built a dynamic, multi-generational group made up of experienced scientists, top experts, and emerging young talent. This diverse team fosters innovation and steady progress. Among them are five recipients of top national talent awards and fifteen honored at the provincial or ministerial level.

Our impact is reflected in our strong track record: leading several major national science and technology projects; publishing over 800 high-impact research papers; securing more than 200 patents (including nine international ones); developing 18 national and international standards; and producing 100 academic books. We have also received over 20 science and technology awards at the provincial and ministerial levels. In 2021, the Center was named an "Outstanding Collective in National Professional Talent" at the Sixth National Commendation Conference—one of China’s most prestigious honors.