In Japan, aspiring teachers are required to pass a rigorous examination prior to certification. The organization of school time in both societies encourages continued development of teachers, who are given the time they need to grow and cooperate as professionals. Time spent outside the classroom is not considered wasted, but an essential aspect of professional work. In both countries, the Commission sensed considerably greater encouragement of teacher professionalism than is apparent in the United States. It is clear from these observations that the issue of improving student performance is not simply a matter of time.
Time is clearly critical.
In the context of a global market for educated people, the fact that youth abroad receive the equivalent of several additional years of schooling cannot be ignored. But other factors are equally important. Elsewhere, core academic instruction is emphasized. Academic time is protected. Teachers are held to high standards and treated as professionals.