Unveiling the role of political education for political participation in China

It is a well-known fact that political education plays a pivotal role in shaping informed, engaged, and responsible citizens in a country. The empirical literature lacks the exploration of the impact of political education on political participation in addition to political efficacy and social media usage. This study investigates the interconnected relationship between political education, social media usage, political efficacy, and political participation in China. Drawing upon a sample of 843 participants across various regions, this research explores the extent to which these factors influence political participation within the Chinese context by applying the structural equation modelling for empirical results and establishing a positive association between political education and political participation. Furthermore, the mediating role of social media and political efficacy is uncovered in relationship of political education and political participation in China. It is suggested to emphasize and invest in comprehensive political education programs through colleges, universities and social media that promote critical thinking, information literacy, and political responsibility for the well-being of the Chinese society.