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The Educational Review, USA

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Article Open Access http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/er.2025.01.011

From Alienation to Resonance: An Analysis of Teachers’ Workload in China Under the “Double Reduction” Policy—Based on the Theory of Social Acceleration Critique

Meiyuyang Zhao, Honglin Wu*

School of Humanities, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu, China.

*Corresponding author: Honglin Wu

Published: February 13,2025

Abstract

This article examines the increased workload of Chinese teachers under the "Double Reduction" policy through the lens of Hartmut Rosa's theory of social acceleration. Moving beyond traditional approaches, the research analyzes how technological advancements, rapid social change, and an accelerated pace of life contribute to teachers’ sense of alienation and intensified workloads. This qualitative analysis draws on existing research and theoretical insights to identify key dimensions of acceleration impacting teachers, including pressure from a rapidly changing educational environment, increased social expectations, and self-imposed temporal morality. The findings highlight how these factors contribute to a "new alienation," leading to professional exhaustion. The paper argues that fostering "resonance"—through interpersonal support, re-shaping educational values, and reinforcing the intrinsic value of knowledge—offers a path to alleviate teachers' workload and enhance educational quality. This study concludes that achieving a more harmonious teaching environment requires a shift from a focus on speed and productivity towards a value-driven, resonant teaching ecosystem.

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How to cite this paper

From Alienation to Resonance: An Analysis of Teachers' Workload in China Under the "Double Reduction" Policy—Based on the Theory of Social Acceleration Critique

How to cite this paper: Meiyuyang Zhao, Honglin Wu. (2025). From Alienation to Resonance: An Analysis of Teachers' Workload in China Under the "Double Reduction" Policy—Based on the Theory of Social Acceleration Critique. The Educational Review, USA9(1), 78-85.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/er.2025.01.011