Reciprocal Learning: Academic Supports in Middle and Secondary Schools

This paper addresses the student support systems available in Chinese schools, with reference to those available in Canadian schools, in order to understand the most effective foundations for academic success and student motivation. The focus of educational support within Chinese and Ontario schools is rooted around times of high-stress exams, such as the Senior High School Entrance Exam (Zhongkao, 中考) and the National Higher Education Entrance Exam (Gaokao, 高考) in China, and the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) Literacy Exam and the Canadian Achievement Tests (CAT) in Ontario. I explore the available means through which schools provide guidance and additional support for students throughout the grades leading up to major examinations. This inquiry involves observation of various Chinese classrooms, research of literature examining stress levels and academic success, and observations of school programs and guidance facilities within the schools and communities.