Core Viewpoint - The current reform of the examination framework in basic education, specifically the "integrated training" model, has limited effectiveness and requires further development to alleviate the exam-oriented nature of education [2][6]. Group 1: Integrated Training Model - The Shanghai Municipal Education Commission has issued a plan for high-quality development in high schools, including a pilot program for long-term integrated training [3]. - Chengdu's education bureau announced a reform to explore a 12-year integrated training model starting in 2025, with eight schools participating in the pilot [3][4]. - The integrated training model is currently limited to a few pilot schools, primarily of medium-level quality, to avoid exacerbating competition for top-tier high schools [4]. Group 2: Examination System and High School Education - The discussion around the potential cancellation of the high school entrance examination (Zhongkao) has been fueled by parental desires for reduced pressure, but the current reforms only represent limited changes [3][5]. - The integrated training model allows students to apply voluntarily without entrance exams, but it does not significantly alter the overall examination landscape, as most students will still take the Zhongkao [4][5]. - The existing disparities among high schools, such as elite and demonstration schools, complicate the potential for abolishing the Zhongkao, as different levels of high schools still exist [5]. Group 3: Future Directions for High School Education - The proportion of students in general high schools is expected to exceed 80% by 2034, but this does not imply the cancellation of the Zhongkao due to the persistence of school-level differences [5]. - A shift in educational strategy is necessary to promote diversity and balance in high school education, which may include the eventual abolition of the elite high school system [5]. - The integration of vocational education into general high schools is suggested as a means to create comprehensive high schools that offer a wider range of courses and options for students [5].

Core Viewpoint - The recent implementation of the "High-Quality Development Implementation Plan for Ordinary High Schools" by the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission and the pilot program for a 12-year integrated education model in Chengdu are part of a broader strategy to optimize high school education resources and reform educational methods, rather than a move to abolish the high school entrance examination (Zhongkao) [2][3][4]. Group 1: Pilot Programs - Shanghai and Chengdu are initiating pilot programs for integrated education, with Chengdu starting with eight middle-tier high schools, aiming to avoid exacerbating competition for top-tier schools [3][4]. - The pilot programs allow students to apply voluntarily without entrance exams, and if applications exceed available spots, a lottery system will be used for admissions [3][4]. Group 2: Educational Structure and Challenges - The current educational structure still features significant disparities among high schools, including elite and demonstration schools, which complicates the potential for abolishing Zhongkao [4][5]. - The push for integrated education and the potential abolition of Zhongkao face challenges due to the existing hierarchy within the high school system, which includes various types of schools with differing resources and academic prospects [3][4][5]. Group 3: Future of High School Education - The trend indicates that by 2034, all eligible students may have access to ordinary high schools, but this does not necessarily mean the elimination of Zhongkao, as long as there are different levels of high schools [4][5]. - A shift towards a more diversified and balanced high school education system is necessary, which may include integrating vocational education into ordinary high schools to create comprehensive high schools that offer both academic and vocational courses [5][6].