Why Asian nations excel in terms of education? It has been noted that the students in East Asia and Singapore are faring better than their counterparts in various international tests and comparisons. Although, culture surely has an effect, the education system of these countries share some common factors. These include emphasis on quality of teaching.

In 2009, a 15 year old Shanghai kid scored first in PISA (Program for International Student Assessment) or PISA. Other toppers in the list were also from Asia including South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong & Japan.

The reason why the East Asian students succeed is due to the culture that places high value on education. The parents and the society teach their kids that they must excel in school in order to succeed. Children start their intensive studies at a very young age. They supplement regular school with tutoring and cram courses. The learning system in China begins even before birth when the child is in utero.The expecting mothers recite poems and English phrases.

 

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In many of these countries, teachers are given a much respected status. So, the teaching sector attracts good talent. And the career prospects are also very good with high salaries.

All teachers of Singapore receive training at NIE (National Institute of Education). There are bonuses for high performers and new teachers get trained with mentors. They also get free professional development of 100 hours every year.

Another point to note is the fact that in Asia, teachers spend fewer hours with the students. In 2010, secondary teachers in Japan spent only 27 percent of time teaching. And in South Korea 37% as compared to the US, where it is 53%. In Shanghai, the class size is 40 students and they spend only 10 to 12 hours in the classroom. Rest of the time is spent in other activities such as mentoring, classroom observation, research and other activities.

However, despite the education in Asia being a success, there is discontent in many countries of the region with their education system over their emphasis on rote learning. This approach may help in excelling at the tests but discourages independent thinking.