Loss US Academic Competitiveness hype?

In summary, there is a lot of hype surrounding the academic competitiveness of American students compared to students from other countries. However, this hype may be overblown as the methodology used to compare academic performance is flawed. In America, mandatory schooling and high college attendance rates may lower the mean academic performance, but it also means that more talented students are included in the statistics. Additionally, the USA has a much higher literacy rate compared to countries like India, which may indicate a strong education system. However, specific statistics on the number of PhDs produced in the USA are difficult to find.
  • #1
elfboy
92
1
loss US Academic Competitiveness... hype?

In my opinion all this hype about American students underperforming Chinese, Russian, & Korean students in math is overblown. Even if it is true it's not that big of a deal and the methodology used to come to these conclusions is flawed. In America school is mandatory and college attendance is very high so you will have absolutely more talented students, but the mean will be lower because of all the under-performers who were 'dragged' to go to school or are not smart enough are factored into the statistic. In India and China only the smartest, richest, and most determined brightest get a higher education.
 
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  • #2
elfboy said:
In my opinion all this hype about American students underperforming Chinese, Russian, & Korean students in math is overblown. Even if it is true it's not that big of a deal and the methodology used to come to these conclusions is flawed.

Can you back these statements up?
 
  • #3
here is a statistic that is rarely purported by the media:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_literacy_rate

The USA has a literacy rate of 99% compared to India with only 75%.

I'm sure the USA produces more PHDs than most countries, but i can't find specific statistics anywhere online.
 
  • #4
How does any of that back the statements I quoted from you?
 
  • #5
In addition to what Pengwuino said,

"The USA has a literacy rate of 99% compared to India with only 75%. "
- How literacy rate is measured?
- Are you wanting to compare absolute or %ages?
- What is "very high" attendance in America? What is "very low", "low"?
 

1. What is the current state of US academic competitiveness?

Currently, the US is facing a decline in academic competitiveness compared to other countries. This is reflected in various indicators such as international test scores, research output, and global rankings of universities.

2. What are the reasons behind the loss of US academic competitiveness?

There are several factors contributing to the decline of US academic competitiveness, including underfunding of education, lack of investment in research and development, and a focus on standardized testing rather than critical thinking skills.

3. How does the loss of US academic competitiveness affect the country?

The loss of US academic competitiveness has significant implications for the country's economy, global influence, and future workforce. It can also lead to a brain drain as top talent chooses to study and work in other countries.

4. What steps can be taken to improve US academic competitiveness?

To improve US academic competitiveness, there needs to be a focus on investing in education and research, promoting a more diverse and inclusive learning environment, and encouraging critical thinking and innovation in the education system.

5. Is there hope for the US to regain its academic competitiveness?

Yes, there is hope for the US to regain its academic competitiveness. By addressing the underlying issues and implementing effective strategies, the country can improve its education system and once again become a leader in academic excellence.

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