The Downsides to the Pursuit of Excellence

Some articles on comments of our Education System. Article 1 is an excerpt from an interview of Opposition Member Hazel Poa in today's Straits Times. Quite an inspiring read if u have the time.

Article 2 talks about our obsession with excellence (number 1s), and the resulting impact on our education system and society as a whole, such as:
-stigmatisation of under-achieving students and consequent low self esteem
-anxiety and stress for those at the top
-arrogance and discrimination towards those who do not make it
-kiasuism and ungracious behaviour, no compassion, selfish
-killing the innovation spirit (aversion to risk-taking, too narrow a focus when it comes to studying, promotes and rewards conformity as opposed to 'breaking the rules' which is necessary for creativity)
-stymied or kill the love for learning

Note also the quotations by Lao Zi at the end on the doctrine of moderation that is characteristic of Taoism and Confucianism.

Sample Qn:
1. Is Singapore paying too high a price for success? (NYJC JC1 CT3 2009)
2. To what extent is your society's education system effective in preparing the nation for its future?



Article 1



Article 2a: 'In Pursuit of Being Good Enough'

Article 2b: 'In Pursuit of Being Good Enough'