The Rest Is History 84. Exams
Aug 9, 2021
Daisy Christodoulou, an educationalist and founder of No More Marking, joins the discussion to unpack the gripping history of examinations. They delve into the evolution of tests from ancient China to modern standardized assessments and explore how these have shaped societal perceptions and educational practices. The conversation also touches on the debate surrounding exams' impact on creativity versus meritocracy, highlighting the tensions between traditional methods and innovative approaches. Expect humor and insights in this engaging analysis!
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Ancient Chinese Exams
- China used exams as early as the 7th century to select civil servants.
- Western reformers in the 18th and 19th centuries studied China's system.
Origin of "Mandarin"
- The term "mandarin" for a civil servant originates from Mateo Ricci's 1601 visit to China.
- Ricci, a Jesuit, was impressed by the Chinese exam system for selecting capable officials.
Elite Overproduction in Qing China
- The Chinese exam system had increasing difficulty, with millions taking basic exams but only hundreds reaching top roles.
- This elite overproduction, where many educated individuals lack elite jobs, contributed to social unrest and the Qing Dynasty's decline.