Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the educational disparities among university students, emphasizing the hidden rules that favor those from affluent backgrounds, as highlighted in Zheng Yajun's book. It also presents a practical guide for students on how to navigate university life effectively, as outlined in Bao Gangsheng's book "Ten Lectures on How to Read University" [3][4][5]. Group 1: Educational Disparities - The competition among university students is influenced by their economic and cultural backgrounds, leading to a divide between privileged students and those from less affluent backgrounds [3][4]. - Zheng Yajun's research illustrates the "game" of elite universities, where students from wealthy families are more adept at navigating the system compared to their less privileged peers [3][4]. Group 2: Practical Guidance for Students - Bao Gangsheng's book serves as a comprehensive guide for students, covering essential skills such as effective reading, logical thinking, public debate, and innovation in the AI era [4][5]. - The emphasis on logic training is crucial, as Bao argues that the ability to think logically is vital for the elite class and the nation's future [5][6]. Group 3: Innovation and AI Opportunities - Bao highlights that AI presents significant opportunities for the current generation of students, urging them to embrace curiosity, imagination, and creativity in their education [5][6]. - The current educational system faces challenges in fostering innovation, as it often prioritizes conformity over creativity, which is essential in the AI age [5][6]. Group 4: Addressing Educational Inequities - The article discusses the phenomenon of educational "involution," driven by societal, familial, and institutional pressures that create unrealistic expectations for students [24][25]. - Bao suggests that a more diverse and innovative educational approach is necessary to reduce competition and promote individual strengths, ultimately benefiting society as a whole [27][28].

Core Insights - The focus of education in the AI era should shift towards fostering curiosity, imagination, and creativity, as emphasized by Bao Gangsheng [1][5] - The book "University Ten Lectures: How to Read University" by Bao Gangsheng provides practical strategies for students to navigate the educational landscape, addressing skills such as effective reading, logical thinking, and public debate [1][2] - The phenomenon of educational stratification is highlighted, where students from affluent backgrounds have an advantage in understanding the "game" of elite universities, while those from less privileged backgrounds struggle [1] Group 1: Educational Strategies - Bao Gangsheng's book is based on his successful online lectures during the Spring Festival, reflecting a growing interest in general education in China [2] - The emphasis on logic training is crucial, as the current education system has historically undervalued it, leading to widespread illogical viewpoints online [4] - Encouragement for young people to engage in public discussions and debates is presented as essential for fostering a rational and progressive society [4] Group 2: Innovation and AI - The potential of AI is identified as a significant opportunity for the current generation of university students, urging them to enter AI-related fields for substantial technological and market advantages [4][5] - The current educational challenges include the need to cultivate innovative talents while simultaneously enforcing strict discipline from a young age [5] Group 3: Observations on Educational Environment - Bao Gangsheng reflects on his own university experience, noting the importance of self-directed learning and the freedom to explore knowledge without the pressure of grades [6][7] - He expresses regret over the limited international perspective in the curriculum during his time at Peking University, suggesting that a more global approach could have better prepared students for future challenges [8] Group 4: Addressing Educational Inequities - The discussion on educational "involution" highlights the pressures faced by students and the unrealistic expectations set by parents, particularly in competitive environments like Beijing [19][20] - Bao Gangsheng argues that a truly excellent society should embrace diversity and encourage individual strengths rather than fostering homogeneous competition [21]