Emotions rate high in Nanjing pilot course on interpersonal skills

More than 30,000 primary and junior high school students in Nanjing are taking a pilot emotional intelligence, or EQ, course, which education experts say will help them control their emotions and learn interpersonal skills.

"One of the shortcomings of China's education is paying too much attention to test scores instead of students' emotional health," said Chen Dingbao, director of the city's Luhe district educational bureau. "Many students are trying to deal with unhealthy emotions and have to face the consequences. That's why we introduced the EQ course."

In EQ classes, teachers try to create a friendly atmosphere and explain psychological concepts by telling stories, and conduct psychological testing and role plays, Chen said.