I think it's a test for how far a building can lean without falling over.berkeman said:
PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) is a worldwide study conducted by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to assess 15-year-old students' skills and knowledge in reading, mathematics, and science. PISA uses standardized tests to measure performance and compare educational systems across countries.
China's PISA performance has consistently ranked among the top countries in reading, mathematics, and science. In the latest 2018 assessment, China ranked 1st in all three subjects, surpassing other countries such as Singapore, Japan, and South Korea.
The answer is likely a combination of both. China's education system emphasizes rote learning and test-taking skills, which may contribute to its high PISA scores. However, cultural factors, such as the value placed on education and parental involvement, may also play a role in China's high-performing students.
Some critics argue that China's high PISA scores may not accurately reflect the overall quality of its education system. They point to the intense pressure and stress placed on students to perform well on exams, which may not foster creativity and critical thinking skills. Additionally, there are concerns about the equity and fairness of education access in China.
In recent years, China has implemented various education reforms, such as reducing the emphasis on standardized testing and promoting more holistic approaches to learning. The government has also invested in teacher training and curriculum development to improve the quality of education. China's efforts to improve its education system are ongoing, and its PISA performance will likely continue to be closely monitored.