Cram schools, also known as tutoring centers or supplemental education programs, are
institutions designed to provide intensive preparation for exams. Originating in East Asia,
particularly in countries like South Korea, Japan, and China, these schools have gained
popularity worldwide. As we navigate through high school, many of us face pressure to excel
academically, especially with college in the near future. I wanted to share some insights about
what cram schools are, their benefits and drawbacks, and whether they might be a good fit for us.
As education continues to develop it’s important to ask ourselves what can the system do for us.
Cram schools are places where students go for extra help, to prepare for big tests like the SAT,
ACT, or other entrance exams. They often focus on intensive study sessions and aim to boost our
scores and understanding of subjects. The benefits of cram schools are improved academic
performance, targeted learning, motivation and discipline, and preparation for competitive
exams. One of the main reasons students attend cram schools is to improve their understanding,
test scores, and overall academic performance. These schools offer personalized instruction and a
focused curriculum, helping us grasp difficult concepts and boost our confidence before exams.
Cram schools can tailor their teaching to student’s specific needs, addressing a specific
weakness. If you’re struggling with math or science, for example, you can get focused help on
those subjects. The structured environment of a cram school can instill discipline and motivation
in students to stay on track. The commitment to attending classes and preparing for exams can
foster a stronger work ethic and beneficial study habits. In a competitive academic landscape,
especially for college admissions, cram schools can provide the tools we need to stand out,
including practice tests, study materials, and strategies to tackle exam formats effectively. On the
other hand, the harm of cram schools include increased stress and pressure, lack of holistic
development, inequality in access, and reduced family time. While the goal is to succeed, the
pressure to perform well can be intense. The high expectations associated with cram schools can
lead to overwhelming stress and anxiety among students, causing burnout. These intensive study
programs often prioritize memorization and test preparation rather than fostering critical
thinking, creativity, and social skills.This can limit our overall development as students,
especially to apply our knowledge in real-world situations. Cram schools can exacerbate
educational inequality, making them inaccessible for some students. This can widen the
academic gap between those who can afford extra help and those who can’t. With the extra time
commitment spent at cram schools, we may find ourselves sacrificing family time, friendships,
and extracurricular activities, which are also essential for a balanced life.Now where are cram
schools? Cram schools are particularly common in East Asia, where intense competition for
academic success is the norm. In countries like South Korea, a significant percentage of students
attend these schools to prepare for college entrance exams. However, they are also becoming
more common in the U.S., especially in urban areas where academic competition is high. Should
this become a more common thing in the U.S. ? While the benefits of improved academic
performance and targeted learning are appealing, the associated harms, particularly regarding
stress and inequality, raise concerns.In the U.S.,education systems typically prioritize a more
holistic approach, focusing on critical thinking and creativity. As high school students, we should
weigh the pros and cons of cram schools. While they can help improve our academic
performance, it’s crucial to think about the stress and pressure that might come with them.
Instead of fully adopting the cram school model, maybe we should focus on enhancing study
groups, after-school tutoring, or finding balance in our studies. Ultimately, it’s about what works
best for each of us individually. Whether you choose to attend one or not, remember to prioritize
your well-being and strive for a balanced high school experience. Good luck, and let’s keep
supporting each other through this journey!