INTEGRATING MYTHICAL BEASTS FROM SHAN HAI JING INTO TRADITIONAL CULTURE TEACHING

Abstract

This study explores the integration of mythical creatures from Shan Hai Jing in animation education to enhance students' cultural understanding and creative skills. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and classroom observations to assess the impact of these mythical elements on students' cultural interest, character design skills, and creative expression. The course design involved three stages: cultural background instruction, character design, and animation production, gradually guiding students to understand and create works infused with cultural significance. Results showed that after integrating Shan Hai Jing elements, students demonstrated a marked increase in interest in traditional culture and exhibited enhanced creativity and cultural identity in their projects. The study indicates that combining cultural content with technical instruction helps students not only master animation skills but also strengthens their cultural identity and creative expression. This educational model offers a reference for integrating traditional cultural content into technical courses, demonstrating that animation education can facilitate both the preservation and innovation of traditional culture in modern creative practices.