education in China

[danna]

Hi! I'm studying Anthropology in college in the U.S. and have an assignment due on interviewing someone from another culture. I was hoping to ask some questions about how China differs from the U.S. in the public school system. If anyone is interested in discussing this please respond. I basically want to know the ages children start school and graduate and if there is anything that is unique only to the Chinese culture within the Chinese school system. Thanks to anyone who can take the time to answer this for me. Anna

[missyou]

I am a Chinese and I just attended the postgraduate students entrance examination last year.And I may help you.

[foodtarget]

We talked about the Chinese education system in one of my Chinese culture classes last semester, and I am sitting next to a Chinese person right now ^_^ He says the normal age to start primary school is 7 and the normal age to graduate is about 19. As for characteristics unique to China, I remember reading one article (I can't find it now ) about how the Chinese education system is based on the Chinese history of Confucian philosophy and the imperial examination system, both of which emphasize a lot of memorization. The article talked about how, in Confucius's view of education, you should first acquire a lot of knowledge (through memorization) before learning to think critically and analytically about this knowledge. I wrote an essay about it for class, I'll try to attach it. It's mostly my opinions and observations, but maybe it will give you some ideas (it's the second half, so have to scroll down).

Another thing that i read about lately is that, under Chinese law, all schoolchildren have to learn Mandarin starting in primary school, but it does not necessarily have to be used as the primary language of instruction. In schools with comprised of mostly minority students with a common language (there are more specifications about which groups and languages fall into this category, but I forget), they can use that language as the main language of instruction (this might apply only to primary and middle school, I'm not sure). One such example I remember is that in areas close to Korea, some schools conduct class in Korean. However, all universities use Mandarin exclusively, and students are tested on their Mandarin ability as part of the college entrance exam. I hope this helps. I'll post more if I think of something else

Asia 243 Final - Cardwell.doc

[liuzhou]

My Education in China pages

[missyou]

Today's China education system is different from that of historical.China's education needs not only memorization,but also,and the most important is your creative ability.

My English is not very well,especially my written English.

Forgive me,I have understanded your post,but I can't express my opinion fluency.

[Rincewind]

liuzhou link is quite comprehensive. I just want to add that Chinese people usually add 1 to their ages (they start counting at 1 rather than 0) so when Foodtarget said "He says the normal age to start primary school is 7 and the normal age to graduate is about 19" you have to translate that to 6 and 18.

The school day for children is long. 8am or earlier is not uncommon and finishing times may be as late as 4.30 or 5 pm. Lunch times tend to be long. There is allot of pressure to perform. Because of the one child system, parents put all their eggs in one basket, so they expect allot form the kids. Those who can afford it (and sometimes those who can't) will send their children to extra private classes in the evenings and weekends. Private summer and winter holiday classes are also well attended.

[danna]

Thanks, the information that everyone gave is very helpful. In the U.S. a lot of emphasis is placed on sports within the school system. Does the same hold true for schools in China and if so what sport? Also, is religion taught in the school system? Thanks, Anna.

[liuzhou]

In the U.S. a lot of emphasis is placed on sports within the school system. Does the same hold true for schools in China and if so what sport? Also, is religion taught in the school system?

Yes, China is big on sport. I'd say basketball is No. 1, but also many others including, of course, table tennis.

No, religion isn't taught. They're communists, remember!

[Stefani]

How about Kindergarten? How many years? In the US it is 1 year, in Indonesia it is 2 years, so I am curious. Is it also a full day thing?

Xie xie.

[Rincewind]

No religion in schools but politics is taught.

Sport can be quite strong if someone shows talent. Basketball and table tennis are the main ones. Swimming and gymnastics are also popular. Soccer is played a bit but other sports like baseball, rugby or cricket are little seen or even known about.

Those who can afford it will send Kids to kindergarten. They may often do 2 or 3 years at kindergarten. The schools I've taught at have had kids as young as 3 though I taught the 4 and 5 year olds. Kindergarten is often all day, again depends on what the parents can afford. Since they are private schools, the ones I've seen have been well equipped and staffed. Often there are just 15 or less students per teacher. I've been in one with just 7 students per teacher. Kindergarten will often include English classes and other skills giving these students a head start.