A couple on campus in Shanghai, May 20, 2015. [Photo/IC]

Tianjin University has offered a 2-hour-16-class "dating" course for "two credits" to first-year college students in 2015, which includes dating theory and practical skills. This has triggered a heated online debate. Comments:

There is nothing wrong with a university offering a dating course, though more theoretical than practical, if it focuses on respect for values in a relationship, couple's attitude toward each other, social etiquette and basic knowledge about how to interact with the opposite gender. Therefore, it is unnecessary to attach complicated connotations to the course.

Scol.cn, Sept 21

Dating comes naturally to human beings, although there are exceptions. It teaches us to assume responsibility and prepares us to deal with setbacks in a relationship. In this sense, the dating course in Tianjin University will help students. But an open and encouraging attitude is the best quality a youth can have when it comes to dating.

China Youth Daily, Sept 22

From opposition to acquiescence and public promise of no interference－the changing attitude of universities and educators shows they have become more inclusive and open-minded. However, dating courses should not become the "main course" in college students' life; their priority should be to gather knowledge, learn skills and cultivate ideas.

Beijing Morning Post, Sept 22

Confronting or dealing with the negative influence of some social developments on universities and students is indeed a tough job. Some universities, while deciding what courses to offer, apparently focus more on the "selling point" of a "subject", rather than on its merits or its need for students. The dating course falls in this category. Besides, the course will deprive students of the tension, excitement and joy of falling in love.

Modern Express, Sept 27