On July 31, Japan’s government released the results of a national survey tracking changes in student academic performance over time. The 2024 results showed that scores dropped across all subjects compared to the last survey in 2021.
The survey tested about 30,000 sixth graders and 70,000 ninth graders. Sixth graders were tested in Japanese and math, while ninth graders took tests in Japanese, math, and English.
Scores are based on a 500-point scale. Compared to 2021:
- Sixth-grade Japanese dropped by 15.9 points, math by 20.9.
- Ninth-grade Japanese dropped by 12.7, math by 8.0, and English by 22.9.
In 2021, no subjects showed a decline, so this year's drop is especially concerning. The Ministry of Education says long-term analysis is needed but admitted these drops are significant. Some experts called the results “serious” and “surprising.”
One possible reason given for the drop in English scores was the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many ninth graders began learning English in elementary school during the pandemic, when it was harder to focus on speaking and communication.
A separate survey of parents showed that kids are spending more time on games and smartphones and less time studying outside of school. Also, more parents said they don’t care as much about their children getting high grades.
by MagazineKey4532