German Media: Why Are Chinese Students So Good at Math?

A commentary by Handelsblatt observes that German society and families could benefit from studying and reflecting upon China’s deep commitment to education and the substantial resources invested in it.

The latest results from the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) show that secondary school students from Beijing, Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang rank first globally in both science and mathematics. Meanwhile, German students’ performance continues to decline, reaching an all-time low. While Handelsblatt acknowledges that comparing educational outcomes between China and Germany is complicated by differences in political systems, it argues that such structural distinctions should not obscure the validity of certain achievements within China’s education model. In a piece titled “Why Are Chinese Students So Good at Math?”, the publication states:

"Let us set aside debates over systemic differences and the role of patriotism in Chinese classrooms. Instead, let us ask ourselves honestly: How much time, money, and care are we truly willing to invest in our children’s education?"

Many Germans hold a stereotypical view of Chinese education, perceiving its methods as mechanical and Chinese parents as demanding strict discipline and relentless academic effort. While this perception contains elements of truth, it oversimplifies a far more complex reality.

It is true that Chinese parents and teachers exert considerable pressure on students to achieve high academic results. Tragically, some students have succumbed to mental health crises under this strain, and chronic sleep deprivation remains widespread among Chinese youth. The root cause lies in the prioritization of academic achievement over personal development—a dynamic that extends even to kindergarten, where early preparation for future career paths begins.

In parallel, Chinese families often exhibit a strong culture of academic focus, driven by a deep-seated desire for social mobility, a legacy tied to the country’s centuries-old imperial examination system. For many Chinese students, dedicating every waking moment to exam preparation, while neglecting other aspects of life, has long been seen as a natural and necessary condition for success.

Handelsblatt notes that in China, academic diligence is widely regarded as the primary pathway to admission at elite universities—and thus, to securing desirable employment. To safeguard their children’s futures, parents are prepared to make extraordinary sacrifices to create optimal learning conditions:

"In the face of what may appear to Germans as an almost obsessive work ethic, one might be tempted to laugh, given the prevailing cultural belief that children should not be burdened with excessive pressure. Yet one fact cannot be ignored: such dedication requires powerful motivation. The underlying principle is straightforward—and profoundly reflective: effort is rewarded. Success follows hard work."

In major and medium-sized Chinese cities, teachers are required to undergo continuous professional training; digital platforms are extensively used in instruction; and educators meticulously prepare each lesson. The performance-driven mindset embedded throughout China’s economic and administrative systems also permeates its education sector—despite the inherent trade-offs involved.

Even more crucially, there is a broad societal consensus on the value of study, accompanied by significant parental investment of time and financial resources. The shared understanding is clear: without sustained effort and sacrifice, meaningful progress is unattainable.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1877784764372992/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.