A Comparison of Academic Load and Student Perspectives on Education Between America and China
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47611/jsrhs.v11i3.2738Keywords:
education, America, China, student perspectives, academic success, stereotypes, middle school, high school, academic load, comparisonAbstract
Education is a significant contributor towards shaping the future of our society. However, education systems and academic values in distinct countries such as the United States and China may vary and therefore have different impacts on students living in different parts of the world. This influenced this study in terms of student perspectives on various aspects of their educational experience, which includes academic load at school, tutoring, extracurriculars, and preparedness for future success in college or careers. The results show that overall, middle school and high school students in China have a higher academic load because they have more classes and spend more time at school, doing homework/studying, or receiving tutoring. However, student perspectives on the importance of grades vs. personal qualities are fairly similar between American and Chinese students, with less value on grades and standardized test scores towards future academic success. Because China has a traditionally stricter stance on academic rigor and standardized testing, this insight represents a potential shift in mindset towards education in the modern day. Future research can seek to confirm this in other regions and countries to seek a more accurate and cohesive overview of student perspectives on education.
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