5 Reasons Japanese School System Is Thriving While the American One Is Failing

Why is the Japanese school system thriving while the Western education system is failing?

There are some stark differences between the American education system and those across the water, but have you ever thought about what those differences truly are?

The Japanese school system, for example, is particularly fascinating, as there are a number of different reasons as to why their educational system produces some of the most successful graduates in the world.

1. No examinations until the students are ten years old

The first years of the Japanese school system allow for the child to learn and develop their knowledge properly, learn good manners and develop a strong character before they are pushed to apply themselves towards examinations. This means that rather than to judge the children from the beginning of their school career the children are allowed to grow up and develop their knowledge of the world as well as an education.

2. All students eat the same food

Students in Japanese schools learn about proper health as well as their other subjects, and this flows into their eating habits. Unless there is a certain reason why a child cannot participate, all students eat the same, well-balanced meal to ensure that they have proper nutrition. Each meal has proper portion control and is made from fresh and locally sourced produce to ensure that every child gets a good and healthy meal.

The teachers also eat with their students, and this creates a stronger bond between students and teachers so that children feel much safer when problems arise that need help and advisement.

3. All schools have uniforms

Japanese schools all have a uniform that is closely regulated and required for every student. This creates equality across the board of all students and removes any of the possible issues that can arise from students wearing their own clothes, such as mocking and bullying. This makes all students equal on a visual level.

Uniforms also reduce the unnecessary distractions that can come from planning and comparing outfits with other students and create a sense of community across the school.

4. The students contribute to the cleanliness of the school

Rather than having custodial staff and a team of janitors to clean the school and keep it up to standard, the students are in charge of their own classrooms. Children also clean the bathrooms and hallways, and this creates a sense of responsibility towards to school and other students, as everyone needs to clean up the mess that they are making for themselves.

As well as teaching them responsibility to others, students also develop a stronger character and pride in their school and education, keeping them much more focused on their schools and their studies.

5. Every student joins some kind of club or team

Every student is required to join a team or a club, allowing them to develop social skills and a rounded personality. This allows for the children to also develop a stronger sense of pride in the school, as they compete and are much more motivated to do well.

Developing their interests and skills is vital for the children to become much more likely to be successful later on in life.

So, what you think about the Japanese school system? Do you believe that western schools should adopt these principles? Share your opinion in the comments below!

References:

1. Business Insider
2. Mental Floss