Some teach in the jungle, others have students cleaning their own schools. Here are some interesting facts about schools around the world…
Each culture develops its own traditions, values and pedagogical approaches to how children should be educated. These approaches are shaped by societies’ historical development, geographical location, economic conditions and cultural beliefs. As a result, education is not only a transfer of knowledge, but also a bridge that carries the identity, values and way of life of a society into the future. Even communities living in different parts of the world, sometimes under harsh natural conditions, have managed to adapt their education systems to these conditions. Each of these systems is a reflection of that society’s struggle for survival and development. But how are children in the desert regions of Africa educated? Or how did the school uniforms worn by students around the world become so common through historical processes? The approaches of different geographies and cultures to children’s education show once again how diverse and interesting global education is. Let’s take a closer look at some interesting facts about schools around the world.
Japan: Students clean their schools themselves
In Japan, students clean their classrooms at the end of each school day in a tradition called “o soji”. They pick up trash, sweep the floors and even clean the toilets. This practice is thought to promote character development, teamwork and respect for the environment. Students also take off their outdoor shoes when they enter the school and put on special slippers called “uwabaki”. This also keeps the classroom environment clean.
Germany: Children start school with a giant cone
In Germany, the start of school is celebrated with a very colorful tradition. A large cardboard cone called a “Schultüte” is filled with toys, sweets and school supplies and given to the students. This tradition has been around since the 19th century and symbolizes the children’s entry into the “serious” world of school.
Australia: Rural children learn by radio
In rural Australia, getting to school can be very difficult. That’s why children are taught by radio through the “School of the Air” project, which began in 1951. Students connect with their teachers over the radio, receive their lessons and send their homework by mail. Today, thanks to the internet, live video lectures are possible.
Finland Children have almost no homework
In Finland, schools are usually open for only 5 hours a day and students are given very little homework. Interestingly, despite this short class time, Finland has one of the best education systems in the world. While Finland focuses on quality education, in many Asian countries students have to attend school for 8.5 hours a day.
England School uniforms were first worn in this country
The world’s first school uniforms were used at Christ’s Hospital School in England in 1552. Students wore blue jackets and yellow socks. Although still controversial in many schools, there is some research to suggest that uniforms improve discipline.
Bangladesh: Education through floating schools
The monsoon season in Bangladesh makes it difficult for children to go to school due to flooding. But thanks to an initiative launched in 2002, children are now being educated through floating schools. These boats are solar-powered and have an internet connection. All the equipment found in modern classrooms is also available in these floating schools.
USA: Horace Mann recognized as father of public education
The foundations of the American education system were laid in the 19th century by an educational reformer named Horace Mann. Mann believed that universal public education would turn children into disciplined and conscientious individuals. He promoted tax-funded schools and convinced business people that this system would create a more educated workforce. For this reason, he is known as the “father of American public education”.
India: Free lunch program helps children’s nutrition
The Midday Meal Scheme in India provides 120 million children with a hot lunch every day. This program, which started in 1955, is implemented in 1.27 million schools in the country. Each meal has to contain a certain amount of calories, protein and vegetables. This program helps children to focus better at school.
France: Until 1956, children could drink wine in schools
Wine is an important part of French culture. Until 1956, students over the age of 14 could drink wine at lunch. This habit was popularized to get children used to the taste of wine. However, after 1981, this tradition ended.
Italy: Children learn through discovery thanks to Montessori education system
Maria Montessori believed that children learn through discovery and argued that forcing them into patterns hinders education. In Montessori schools, children can move freely and choose activities based on their interests. This method has been adopted in many schools around the world.
Sweden and Denmark: Forest schools teach in forest schools
In Sweden and Denmark, students study in forest schools. In these schools, students learn math and science in nature and develop social skills. Through activities such as climbing trees and building fires, they learn how to ensure their own safety.
United Kingdom Students make the rules
Summerhill School in England is a pioneer of the democratic school concept. In these schools, students have a say in everything from curricula to rules. In some schools, students can even vote to hire or fire teachers.
Colombia: Going to school by zipline
In remote villages in Colombia, children are forced to use a zipline to get to school. Instead of a dangerous walk, the children have to overcome the difficult geographical conditions by ziplining their way to school.
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