The Japanese are setting new achievement standards for their competitive American peers; meanwhile, Japanese students in American schools are learning to be more creative and assertive. Teachers adjust their instruction to make the classroom more comfortable for Japanese students raised on rote learning. A sidebar describes five elementary school…

Regarding Japanese students' high achievement levels, there are two important defining characteristics: high standards in all aspects of life and effort in problem solving. The idea of natural ability or talent is not very important. Ironically, Japanese colleges and universities are inadequate, despite rigorous qualifying examinations. (MLH)

A competitive school ambience will further distinguish winners from losers in an increasingly fractured and stratified society. Disadvantaged students have little chance to win the standards game. Educators should examine the gilded age's hypocrisy; what gallantry existed the night the Titanic sank applied only to first-class female passengers.…