The same qualities that make Eastern and Western education so distinct from each other are the same qualities that create such stark differences in student characters.

As educators, we at BBS understand the importance of creating a learning environment that will bring the best out of our students. One way to accomplish it is by implementing the best of the two approaches.

But before diving into how exactly we are doing that, let's first compare the two education systems. So without further ado, here is our list of the top five differences between Eastern and Western Education.

Learning style: Memorisation vs Critical Thinking

Memorisation and repetition are a big part of Eastern learning, as the learning method weighs heavily on understanding theoretical content, in addition to a limited practical application. As a result, students are trained to be diligent note-takers. On the contrary, the Western education system encourages students to challenge ideas presented to them and discuss practically applying what they learned in the real world. 

Classroom environment: Teacher-student dynamic 

On the other hand, challenging ideas taught by the teacher translated as disrespect towards the teacher in Eastern learning. In a classroom in Asia, the teacher is the leader, and students must follow their directions. It is a culture different from a Western classroom, where, as previously mentioned, classes are driven by student participation, so students have a more cordial relationship with their teachers.

Assessments: Testing vs Coursework

In Eastern learning, standardised testing is the hallmark of academic success. But instead of being evaluated accurately on their academic progression, students are instead tested on their memorising skills. On the contrary, Western learning places just as much importance on coursework-related projects, where students' capabilities to practically apply their lessons is also used to evaluate their understanding of the material.

Extracurricular activities 

Extracurricular activities serve different purposes in Eastern and Western education, respectively. In Asia, extracurricular activities are seen as opportunities for students to supplement their on-campus learning to achieve better test scores or bring pride to their families, such as succeeding in music. Conversely, in the West, extracurricular activities are seen as avenues through which students could further explore their talents and interests, with less pressure to succeed. 

Cultural ethos: Collectivism vs Individualism 

Perhaps the most fundamental difference between the two is that the culture in Asia is very collectivist, whereas Western culture is very individualistic. This difference in philosophy can be seen in the differences listed above: Asian students prioritise bringing pride to their families, while Western students are allowed to explore their interests.

In BBS, we look to the Singapore education system as our reference. Thanks to an initiative called 'Teach Less, Learn More' in 2004, the Singapore education system has become a success story that balanced the Eastern values of learning with the critical thinking and technological application highly valued in the western system. Since the transformation from a historically instructional approach synonymous with learning methods in Asia, Singapore's education system cemented its position as one of the world's best across various global surveys, consistently outperforming its peers in the region.

Just like our peers in Singapore, BBS believes in finding a balance for its students to enjoy the benefits of a Western and Eastern curriculum that encourages them to practice their critical thinking skills and become active problem-solvers in society. At the same time, their journey to fulfil their full potential is achieved through a robust and determined work ethic taught by their teachers.  

We believe that adopting an internationally recognised Cambridge curriculum combined with the Chinese values and work ethic serves as a major inspiration to our institutional philosophy that we hold firmly for the past two decades.

How to apply

BBS accepts applications for all its six campuses in Jakarta, Bandung, Semarang, Malang, and Balikpapan for Pre-School, Primary, Secondary, and Junior College education levels. Click here to find out how to apply.