Seeing the cultural differences in education is very interesting as an evoloving teacher. The presentation on educational systems in Vietnam provided much insight into unique influences in other countries. One particular area of the lecture that stuck out to me was the chart on "Parent Expectations for their Children." In listening to the speaker, I noticed the number one and most important thing for parents is for their child/children to be "successful in study." This came one step higher than "filial piety." I have always been under the impression that respect for parents and ancestry was the high priority for the Vietnamese culture. To see that they actually respect students' education is very comforting. In my opinion, the United States could take a few pointers from the people of Vietnam. Not only do the Vietnamese value educational success and respect of ancestry, the lowest ranked expectation was for children to be considered rich. According to our speaker, parents in Vietnam simply want their children to have a "stable life and career." This does not necessarily mean how thick their child's wallet may be.
Although Americans seem to focus on the importance of a solid education, the emphasis often falls on salaries instead of contentment and stability of an occupation. It seems to me as a member of the young generation, that America is losing its respect for family history and finding more importance in the dollar amount on paychecks. A strong, foundational education should support a stable career; this should make any member of society satisfied. Especially during trying times in the economy, a secure job based on a sturdy education should provide plenty for parents to be proud of their children.
I agree that here in the U.S. the emphasis is often more on getting an education so you can get a job that will pay well, rather than getting an education so you can be useful to society. Think about the number of students who dream about being doctors and lawyers versus the number who want to be teachers. And unfortunately it doesn't just start once kids get to high school or college, but even elementary and middle school kids will repeat what they've heard about wanting jobs that make lots of money.
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