China Takes Different Tack From U.S. in Teaching Mathematics and Science

Asian country follows national standards.

China’s approach to teaching math and science differs sharply from that of the United States, concludes a report that details the Asian nation’s use of strong national standards, a logical progression from easy to more difficult material, and superior teacher training in those subjects, even in the early grades.

But the quality of education in China also varies greatly between urban and rural areas, it says, and the overall system suffers from a relatively rigid teaching style and an emphasis on “didactic rote memorization” in student learning.

The report, “Math and Science Education in a Global Age: What the U.S. Can Learn from China,” was released June 8 by the Asia Society, a New York City-based nonprofit group that promotes international cooperation. Its conclusions emerge amid a rising clamor from U.S. officials and business leaders about the growing economic might of both China and India—and those countries’ ability to churn out students with strong science,...