The Train Analogy

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The main recommendation to improve education systems is to slow down the curriculum and ensure all students can keep up
Have clear expectations for student understanding at each stage of education
Implement strategies to support students who are falling behind
Use the analogy of a slow train in Finland, Singapore, and Japan, where everyone gets on and catches up before speeding up
In contrast, England starts school early and some students are left behind, leading to a curriculum that moves too quickly for many students

In this episode math professor, Anna Stokke, interviews Lucy Crehan, who is a teacher and an author. In her book, Cleverlands, she presents her first-hand observations of the education systems in different countries.

They discuss teacher qualifications in Finland and Singapore, teacher professional development in Japan and math lessons in Shanghai. They cover some commonalities in high-performing countries, such as the use of high-quality textbooks, and the role of practice and memorization in East Asian countries. The conversation then shifts to cultural differences, some of which may impact educational outcomes. If you are curious about education systems in different parts of the world, you won’t want to miss this episode!

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-8-transcript

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-8-resources

MUSIC

Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it

Podington Bear – Lakeside Path

Blue Dot Sessions – Tall Harvey, Hundred Mile

Lexin Music - Upbeat Documentary

OYStudio – Light Comedy

Website: www.annastokke.com

Twitter: @rastokke