China is working to improve its public education by focusing on sparking curiosity and encouraging students to think independently. Traditionally, the focus was on gathering knowledge, passing tests and following orders. Now, students in some schools do their own research and discuss their ideas, which is helping to improve student achievement. In a country where Chinese authorities traditionally assign students’ college majors and jobs, these changes in the education model will help students think for themselves and also thrive in Chinese society.
Story Length: 5:22
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AIR DATE: 08/08/2017
August 26, 2016
3:48
New research shows that black students in kindergarten through high school are almost four times as likely to be suspended from school than white students. Some people think that suspension should not be allowed in preschool at all. One reason given for the higher levels of discipline of black, male students is implicit bias. Specialists say that with more funding for public education, preschool teachers can receive better training, and more support to avoid resorting to suspension. Listen to the story to hear about one school that is making an effort to help disruptive students, rather than kick them out.
Read MoreFebruary 4, 2016
4:34
China sends more students to the United States than any other country, and a growing number of them are teenagers. More than 23,000 Chinese teens attend U.S. high schools, hoping to get into a good college. These students are exposed to a very different kind of education than in their home country. Money is not a barrier for many families, and there are many tutoring centers that add to the costs of private schools. Loneliness can be a problem for foreign students and some act out. Listen to this story to hear more about these Chinese teenagers in U.S. schools.
Read MoreNovember 2, 2015
3:00
For 35 years, the Chinese government limited families to having one child. This week that policy changed and most families now have the option of having two children. The Communist party declared the previous policy a success. Population control was part of a political plan to reduce the number of people and raise the per capita income. Families who want to have more children welcomed this announcement. Others were more cynical, asking if the government will now force them to have more children. Listen to this story to hear various opinions about this policy change in China.
Read MoreMarch 26, 2014
7:48
What does it take to be successful in school and life? Research shows that success is strongly correlated to something called “grit.” Grit combines determination, persistence and resilience. People with grit are able to push through difficulties, learn from mistakes, and pick themselves up and try again when they fail. Schools and teachers are trying to instill grit in their students, but is this possible? Listen to learn more from people who support and challenge this new direction in education.
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