Western Countries Failing At Science Education, Singapore Tops Recent PISA Survey

The results of the most recent Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) was just published and it spelled great news for Singapore. The tiny port state managed to secure the top spot with regards to educational performance on scientific fields. However, the survey also revealed that most western countries are failing in educating students in science despite the huge budgets that many of their institutions are funneling into their programs.

The survey involved looking into the performance of over 72 countries around the world, RT reports, testing students around the age of 15 years old on both math and science. Over 540,000 students took the test from all participating countries. It showed that although Singapore was more focused on preparing its students to enter the manufacturing sector in the past, its performance in STEM subjects has improved since the last survey.

The survey also credits the ability of the teachers in the city-state to teach the students, labeling them as “pillars of Singapore’s education system.” Even the culture in Singapore was praised by those behind the survey, saying that the trait of dedication and collaborative learning are what led to their excellent performance.

In contrast, the survey also noted how only a handful of countries showed improved performance in science education since 2006, Phys.org reports. This result becomes even more shocking as generally speaking, spending has increased by up to 20 percent among the countries surveyed.

Backing the survey is the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, with Angel Gurria being the Secretary-General. According to her, despite all of the scientific achievements over the years, education has not been able to keep up.

"A decade of scientific breakthroughs has failed to translate into breakthroughs in science performance in schools," Gurria said.

The organization’s director for education and skills, Andreas Schleicher also noted that involvement and refinement are necessary. Right now, most students believe that learning science is irrelevant to their lives.

"It's not about science tests, it's about engaging students and making science learning relevant... that's what translates to better outcomes and better careers," Schleicher said.