Cultural factors influence performance and school systems differ.
Despite such problems, international comparisons are not impossible and a great deal can be learned from examining schooling abroad. In fact, unflattering comparisons of the academic performance of American students with those from other lands spurred attempts at school improvement in the United States throughout the 1980s. School performance abroad has consequences and is closely related to opportunities for employment and further education. Teachers in other countries enjoy freedom and respect as professionals. In short, education abroad is built around high expectations.