Country Differences

[Charlie]

In the USA kids start school much later than in the UK-two years later normally, and graduate two years later too. How does this impact their performance on a world scene when other countries are starting so much earlier?

[Experimental]

I would rather kids start earlier and end later. I really think we are falling behind in teaching all sorts of things. Math and science have taken a big hit. Our students are woefully lacking skills in this area and it will show in the coming years with technology.

[Charlie]

Another difference I have noticed is that kids in US universities tend to study a wide variety of subjects-humanities from the first day. We specialise from the off, so have a full degree of just our chosen subject. Does this more broad approach leave the kids with a less in depth knowledge at the end of their degree?

[silviana]

I remember when I had to choose and I had to give up science subjects in order to study art and literature, which was a pity as I liked all of these subjects. I suppose there just isn't time to do them all!

[MsThang]

The American education system was designed differently for a number of reasons, all starting from the first schools that popped up even while the West was still wild. Now, American parents feel that their children should be kept at home to bond with family and learn some basics at home, usually not leaving for school until the age of 5. Universities make students take "general education" courses for two main reasons: 1) to make sure students have experienced all possible areas of study to determine their major (as if that couldn't be done in high school, psh) and 2) because American businesses say that no matter what the field, they want their employees to be "well-rounded" academically.

Oh, capitalism, you slay me.

[Experimental]

I would rather have students who were trained for what they need to do. They can study what they like to in between if they wish. Well rounded is great until you need a nurse who needs to place a urinary catheter in and doesn't know how because she had to take world literature.

[Charlie]

Originally Posted by Experimental

I would rather have students who were trained for what they need to do. They can study what they like to in between if they wish. Well rounded is great until you need a nurse who needs to place a urinary catheter in and doesn't know how because she had to take world literature.

Exactly! I mean, you wouldn't have a nurse placed in that position but I agree with the principle.

Education is expensive. So it is better to become highly qualified in the things you need, rather than throw away money on things you don't.

[MsThang]

The goal, of course, is for students to master the information in their field (thus, they usually have to write a thesis related to their field to graduate) while also having "universal" knowledge they share with all college graduates of the country. Unfortunately, it's become out of control, and now many students take five or more years to graduate. The system could definitely use another look; but with the way the economic situation is affecting univesity funding, I doubt any university will make moves to help students graduate sooner (and thus miss out on tuition).