So, how do we answer questions surrounding the Korean education system? As someone who loves Korea and data, I see a potential “Moneyball” scenario that could change everything for Korean education. Some stats are overrated (memorization, problem solving), while some can actually predict success in reality (logical thinking, collaboration, brainstorming / project design).
My answer is to shift toward Process-Based Assessment.
AI can pass the CSAT, meaning that AI is better than humans at problem solving. So the only answer would be to pivot to an area humans will always outperform AI in.
1. Emphasize “Fact-Checking”: Instead of evaluating students on their ability to memorize historical dates, make them debate on opposing historical sources. Go through steps 1 to 5 in the fact checking practice tool. Argument -> Evidence Gathering -> Mapping -> Synthesis. Evaluate students on how thorough their evaluation process is when forming an argument.
2. Fully adapt the “High School Credit System” (Gogyo Hakjeomje): The most recent trend in Korea is the gradual shift to this system, which allows students to choose the courses they wish to take. This is a great first step toward the right direction. It needs to be set firmly in order to improve on the woes of the Korean education system. The “Rashkis” style of exploration will be possible in this system as well.
3. Redefine the “Scouting Report”: Colleges must focus on the portfolio each student submits, not only scores on an exam. I know, people may scream “unfair!” due to how this kind of an evaluative process may result in efforts to falsely report student achievements. However, with digital available more than ever—blogs, GitHub, personal journalism brands—I am sure it is possible to verify the authenticity of student work alongside its value.
We need to stop forcing students to believe one exam defines their value in society. We need to encourage them to express themselves—build their own stories and find their passions from them. It’s like how the Dodgers focus on maximizing player potential with data instead of trying to robotize them with it. Korean education has a bright future if it chooses to use the rigorous infrastructure to encourage the younger generation to pioneer new areas, not shape them in ways fit for certain positions.