Romania’s education system is facing significant scrutiny following a recent Ipsos study that highlights alarming deficiencies in quality and effectiveness. With only 11% of Romanians rating their educational system as "good," the country ranks lowest among 30 nations surveyed. This article explores the key findings of the study and the implications for Romania’s future.
Key Takeaways
- Romania has the lowest quality education rating among 30 countries.
- 73% of Romanians believe education quality has declined since their school days.
- 51% consider the curriculum outdated, and 45% cite inadequate teacher training as a major issue.
- 60% feel the curriculum does not adequately prepare students for future careers.
Overview of the Study
The Ipsos study, conducted between June 21 and July 5, 2024, surveyed 23,754 adults across 30 countries, including 500 respondents from Romania. The findings reveal a stark contrast between the perceptions of the Romanian public and the educational standards expected in other nations.
Declining Quality of Education
The study indicates that nearly half (47%) of respondents globally believe that the quality of education has worsened compared to their own school experiences. In Romania, this sentiment is even more pronounced, with 73% expressing similar concerns. This perception is compounded by the belief that the curriculum is outdated, with 51% of Romanians agreeing that it fails to meet contemporary educational needs.
Teacher Preparedness and Student Dropout Rates
Inadequate teacher training is another critical issue, with 45% of respondents identifying it as a significant challenge. Furthermore, 36% of Romanians acknowledge that school dropout rates are a pressing problem, placing the country at the forefront of educational challenges.
Gaps in Creative Skill Development
The study also highlights a lack of emphasis on developing students’ creative skills, with 70% of respondents feeling that this aspect is insufficiently addressed in Romanian schools. Additionally, 60% believe that the current curriculum does not prepare students adequately for their future careers, further exacerbating concerns about the education system’s effectiveness.
Safety and Inclusivity in Schools
On a more positive note, Romania ranks 8th out of 30 countries regarding the safety of school environments, with 48% of respondents feeling that schools perform well in providing safe spaces free from violence and harassment. Moreover, 52% believe that schools are effective in promoting diversity and reducing disparities among students.
The Role of Technology in Education
Looking ahead, the study reveals mixed feelings about the impact of technological advancements on education. While 30% of Romanians fear that technology and artificial intelligence may negatively affect education, opinions are divided on banning AI tools like ChatGPT in schools. However, there is a stronger consensus against the use of smartphones in educational settings, with 50% supporting a ban.
Discrepancies in Sexual Education Responsibility
The Ipsos study also uncovers a significant divide in perceptions regarding sexual education in schools. While many countries believe that teachers should take the lead in this area, only one-third of Romanians share this view, indicating a preference for parental responsibility in sexual education and mental health support for students.
Conclusion
The findings from the Ipsos study paint a concerning picture of Romania’s education system, highlighting critical areas that require urgent attention and reform. As the country prepares to participate in the OECD’s literacy assessment starting in 2025, it is imperative for policymakers to address these challenges to improve educational outcomes for future generations.
