Asia
Curriculum Framework in China
- Core curriculum: Emphasizes foundational subjects (Chinese, Mathematics, English, History, Geography, etc.) for all students.
- Elective curriculum: Allows students to choose courses based on their interests and career goals.
- Focus on academic excellence: High-stakes testing and a rigorous curriculum prepare students for further education and the workforce.
- Emphasis on moral education: Aims to develop students' values, ethics, and respect for society.
- Recent reforms: Focus on reducing academic pressure, promoting innovation, and fostering critical thinking skills.
Curriculum Framework in Japan
- Fundamental curriculum: Covers core subjects (Japanese language, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, etc.) for all students.
- Specialized curriculum: Allows students to specialize in specific areas (e.g., Science, Humanities, Arts).
- Emphasis on holistic development: Aims to nurture students' minds, bodies, and hearts.
- Respect for Japanese culture and traditions: Curriculum incorporates elements of Japanese history, literature, and arts.
- Recent reforms: Focus on developing global competencies, fostering creativity, and promoting collaboration.
Curriculum Framework in South Korea
- National Curriculum Framework: Sets the overall goals and content for all levels of education.
- Core curriculum: Emphasizes foundational subjects (Korean language, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, etc.)
- Elective curriculum: Allows students to choose courses based on their interests and future plans.
- Focus on academic achievement: Competitive entrance exams for higher education drive students to excel academically.
- Emphasis on 21st-century skills: Recent reforms focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication abilities.
Europe
Curriculum Framework in the European Union (EU)
- European Education Area: Aims to create a single education space where students can move freely between countries.
- Key Competences Framework: Outlines eight key competences (e.g., communication, digital literacy, critical thinking) that students should acquire.
- Focus on lifelong learning: Curriculum emphasizes the need for continuous professional development and skill acquisition.
- Emphasis on equity and inclusion: Aims to ensure that all students have equal access to quality education.
- Recent developments: Focus on developing digital skills, promoting creativity, and fostering civic engagement.
Curriculum Framework in Finland
- National Core Curriculum: Sets the common core for all schools in Finland.
- Phenomenon-based learning: Students explore cross-curricular themes (e.g., the environment, health) through real-world experiences.
- Emphasis on inquiry-based learning: Students are encouraged to ask questions, gather evidence, and develop their own understanding.
- Focus on student well-being: Curriculum includes elements that support students' physical, mental, and emotional health.
- Recent reforms: Focus on promoting equal opportunities, enhancing digital education, and fostering lifelong learning.
Curriculum Framework in Germany
- Bildungsstandards: National standards that define the knowledge, skills, and competencies that students must acquire.
- Curricula for individual states: Each state develops its own curriculum based on the national standards.
- Emphasis on vocational education: Dual-track system combines academic and vocational education.
- Focus on cultural diversity: Curriculum recognizes and values the cultural diversity of Germany's population.
- Recent developments: Focus on promoting digital literacy, fostering critical thinking, and developing sustainability education.