Future University Entrance Exam Reform: Teachers' Association Members Hold Meeting
Teachers from Four Local Associations Discuss Directions for Entrance Exam Changes
Attending Teachers Emphasize Gyeonggi Education Leading Efforts, Responsible for One-Third of National Education
The Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education (Superintendent Lim Tae-hee) is continuing its efforts to reform future university admissions together with members of teacher organizations to restore the essence of education.
Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education building. Provided by Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education
According to the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education on the 19th, following the council held last October, on the 18th of this month, a ‘Future University Admissions Reform Teacher Organization Council’ was held with teachers belonging to the Gyeonggi Teachers’ Federation, Gyeonggi Teachers’ Labor Union, Gyeonggi Practical Education Teachers’ Association, and Good Teachers Movement (Gyeonggi) participating.
At this council, participants discussed the proper direction for changes in the university admissions system. They also anticipated difficulties that may arise in schools due to admissions changes and sought alternatives together.
Teacher A, affiliated with a teacher organization and attending the council, said, “We have entered an era of rapid population decline, and in response to changes in the educational environment, we must cultivate the capabilities of all students.” He added, “Education should be implemented in a way that fosters individual future competencies and nurtures mutual respect.”
Teacher B said, “The Ministry of Education’s 2028 university admissions reform plan deviates from the purpose of the high school credit system and is also inconsistent with the 2022 revised curriculum, raising concerns that it may cause excessive competition among students.” He continued, “The system should be restructured so that students who have faithfully completed the school curriculum can enter universities, and universities should be given opportunities to provide education that aligns with the school’s philosophy and the characteristics of their departments.”
Teacher C emphasized, “School life records are not an evaluation of teachers’ descriptive abilities, so they should be improved to faithfully reflect students’ diverse educational activities.” He also stressed, “There should be measures in place to prevent complaints regarding the observations and records made by teachers about students.”
Teacher D said, “Gyeonggi education is responsible for the education of about 30% of students and schools nationwide, so it has a significant influence across the country.” He urged, “I hope the Provincial Office of Education will take responsibility and lead so that this university admissions reform can be carried out in a positive direction for school education.”
All attending teachers unanimously emphasized, “For future university admissions reform to be realized, it is first necessary to establish an educational environment where teachers can focus on educational activities.” They added, “To ensure education moves in the right direction, an educational cooperation system must be established, and all members of society must join forces.”
Kim Sung-jin, Director of the Career and Vocational Education Division at the Provincial Office of Education, said, “There have been many studies discussing changes in university admissions and various difficulties, but I believe the reform period should not be delayed any further.” He urged, “I hope teachers actively participate in discussions on university admissions reform so that schools can become spaces where all students prepare for better lives and places of happiness.”
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
