Many people are debating how effective is the Chinese education system compared with that in the West. It is one of those debates that will never end.

It is clear that both systems' approach toward education has plenty of pros and cons. Ideally, they should be used in combination so that students can get a "taste of both the worlds".

Western-style original thinking pattern should be developed alongside Chinese-style problem solving and theory application skills.

I have been teaching in some of the leading Australian universities and I've been privileged to have many overseas students from China in my classes. Many of them complain that their English is not good enough to follow the lectures or mix with local students. So what is it that keeps them going?

The answer is enormous desire to do their best. While the majority of local students have an "easy" attitude toward their studies and do not always attach great importance to the marks and the knowledge acquired, nearly all the Chinese students are focused on doing their best to make the most of their learning experience.

Though the Chinese education system is not without its flaws, I can only admire a society that is able to empower its younger generation with the ability and desire to study hard.

Therefore, it is only fair to credit the Chinese education system (along with the parents, of course) for teaching students how to study hard.

Michael Baron, via e-mail

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(China Daily 03/02/2011 page9)