Shanghai gets first Sino-US high school_美文_趣味英语-查字典英语网

Shanghai gets first Sino-US high school

China's education has long been criticized for its mechanical learning and the absence of innovation. As an alternative, many Chinese students seek internationally recognized courses that can get them into overseas universities.

By the end of 2013, there were 63 high schools offering the IBDP, and most of them are located in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong and Jiangsu, according to a report from Beijing Hantong Education.

Meanwhile, A-level courses used in the British educational system also gained popularity among Chinese students.

Another Hantong report said there are more than 167 authorized schools in China offering A-level subjects, a huge surge compared to a mere 10 in the field before 2003.

"Under traditional education, students will live under huge academic pressure, with lack of self-awareness and innovative ability," said a woman who identified herself as Yang. Her son is in primary school.

"I wanted my son to grow in a more open and diversified learning environment. So I decided to enroll him in international courses at an earlier stage to better prepare him for future studies overseas."

That line of thinking has become more common.

"In recent years, there has been a strong demand for students seeking overseas studies. More students are willing to study abroad at a younger age, which leads to the popularity of IB programs and A-levels," said Winston Shao, a consultant from EIC Group, a Chinese education services provider.