Abstract

This study investigates the preservation and educational transmission of Shandong Clapper Ballad, a nationally recognized intangible cultural heritage, through the medium of documentary filmmaking. Faced with declining participation—particularly among younger generations—under the pressures of globalization and modernization, the research evaluates how education-oriented documentaries can function simultaneously as a preservation tool and a pedagogical resource to enhance cultural literacy, foster aesthetic appreciation, and strengthen cultural identity. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines literature review, field investigation, and interviews with practitioners, educators, and cultural experts, the study provides a multidimensional analysis of the art form’s historical development, educational value, and contemporary challenges. Findings reveal that while traditional modes of transmission remain vital, integrating modern media with explicit educational design significantly improves audience engagement and learning outcomes. The documentary format, enriched with narrative scaffolding and contextual interpretation, effectively raises awareness, stimulates interest, and supports the art form’s incorporation into both formal curricula and community-based education. However, persistent barriers—such as limited funding, inadequate technical resources, and insufficient integration into education systems—highlight the need for strategies that blend media innovation with curriculum development, experiential learning, and digital dissemination. Ultimately, this research demonstrates that media-driven, education-centered approaches can transform traditional art forms from static cultural relics into dynamic, participatory learning resources capable of thriving in contemporary society.

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