A comparison of the American and the Chinese educational systems.

摘要

The purpose of this study was to examine and compare the similarities and differences between the American and the Chinese educational systems and to investigate possible ways for improvement of both systems. The research was conducted from a macroscopic point of view so as to provide a holistic picture of the background, present conditions, and trend for the future, including the aspects of each country's history, culture, philosophy, politics, current policy, leadership, structure, financial resources, teaching/learning process, roles of teacher and student, achievements, and reform.;Qualitative analysis was employed in most of the aspects mentioned above, except for demographic finances and other results in which some quantitative analyses were applied. The data were collected mainly from reports by UNESCO, governments, and other organizations during the past 20 years, and from observations by the researcher.;Five conclusions resulted from the findings and discussions of this study. First, an educational system is a component of the broader progress of social development. The American and the Chinese educational systems are similar in that they are formed in the process of social progress and affected by internal and external pressures. The differences lie in the fact that the American system is an Americanized European model, while the Chinese system is a socialist model with Chinese characteristics. Second, the social system determines the educational system. American education emphasizes individual development and gives priority to local needs but Chinese education emphasizes "red and expert", keeping the national and the people's interest above personal needs. Owing to the global development in science and technology, both countries have similar schooling structures and academic content. Third, the leadership styles of good leaders are similar. The general progress of human civilization determines the major similarities, while specific social and political contexts determine the minor differences. Fourth, the educational system itself may greatly influence the nature of its outcomes. American education is basically student-centered and decentralized, while Chinese education is basically teacher-centered and centralized. How the system functions greatly affects the moral education, student achievement, financial support, quality and quantity control, and job perspectives. Fifth, both countries' reform plans are ambitious and facing great challenges. Each country has its own problems and its own social contexts which affect the fulfillment of the established tasks.