Cultivation research of applied undergraduate students' “general skills” based on the ancient “six arts” talent cultivation model

The concept of general skills, rooted in the ancient “Six Arts” that emerged during the Zhou Dynasty in 1046 BC, delineates six essential skills mandated for talent in ancient states, specifically referring to rites, music, archery, charioteering, writing, and mathematics. The notion and essence of general skills derive from general education, which has made significant strides in institutions of higher learning in Western countries. While the understanding of general education and its associated concepts within the educational realm in China differs somewhat, the overarching objective converges towards cultivating holistic individuals, also known as “complete persons,” who possess broad vision, adaptable insights, erudite spirits, and refined sentiments. General skills constitute the technical facet of general education, aiming to produce talents under this educational paradigm equipped not only with expansive academic perspectives but also with robust practical skills, thus rendering individuals with both intellectual acumen and physical prowess more “complete.” Currently, the concept and essence of general skills lack theoretical and practical support within the educational and academic spheres. The author endeavors to explore the cultivation of general skills among applied undergraduate students through the study of the ancient talent cultivation model of the “Six Arts,” coupled with an examination of the implementation status of general education in certain regions of Hong Kong, Taiwan, and mainland China, alongside the contemporary societal demands for talent. Furthermore, the author aims to propose preliminary insights into the reform of general education in applied undergraduate institutions.