What is the Education System like in Asian countries? This article looks at China, Singapore, Taiwan, and South Korea. It then discusses the differences between each country’s education system and the U.S. model. While each country has its own unique characteristics, you can find common themes across countries. If you have never visited one of these countries, I highly recommend you give it a shot. I guarantee that you will be impressed with the differences!
South Korea
The country’s educational system is highly competitive. The government provides pre-primary education for free. Middle schools have been mandatory in South Korea since 2002. Students who complete middle school are eligible for high school, which can be either general or vocational. There are seven different types of higher education, with more than 300 accredited institutions. Graduates of middle school or high school must take an entrance exam to continue their education. Students who perform well in these exams may attend better-quality schools in the common district.
China
The government’s aim was to improve the country’s education system. In the 1970s, illiteracy rates among the country’s youths dropped from 80 percent to five percent, and the government introduced a nine-year compulsory education law to ensure that youths complete their education. The new legislation also prohibited employers from employing young people before they have completed nine years of education. It also authorized schools to offer free education to youths in need. However, China is still far from achieving the goal of free education in primary school. While there were some promising developments, many poor families faced difficulties in paying school fees, and some children had to leave school early.
Singapore
The country’s educational system is a mix of private schools and government-run institutions. While there are many reasons why students drop out of school, the recent lack of growth in the economy has many pointing to the education system. One of the main reasons is the high level of memorization and focus on the academics. In contrast, Singaporeans today are more creative, and the education system has increased the number of art classes and outdoor outings. Moreover, the country has a strong reputation for its exemplary performance in international tests.
Taiwan
During the Japanese occupation, Taiwan’s education system was highly centralized, with a heavy focus on vocational skills, Chinese language, and Chinese culture. In the 1990s, the Taiwan Ministry of Education began a steady reform of the education system, decentralizing authority and expanding access to the public school system. The new curriculum emphasizes the development of holistic student capabilities, such as communication, self-actualization, and social participation. It requires the development of updated teaching materials and a stronger teacher’s capacity to educate students.
Japan
The central authority for education in Japan is the Ministry of Education (MEXT). This department is divided into three parts, each with a specific mandate. Its mission includes encouraging lifelong learning and academic activities, as well as promoting sports and religious administrative affairs. Its first report was released in July 1996. Its recommendations for education reform are largely positive. The Council has called for more focus on individuality and less on memorization, two major shortcomings of the Japanese education system.