One challenge that I have faced during this project was finding reliable sources and information, as there was a lot of opinion-based information roaming within the articles. I overcame this challenge by using the CRAAP method, which is a 5-step process to double-check whether your site is reputable. This process helped me make my research information true, reliable, and not opinion-based. Another challenge I faced was arranging all my research and fitting it into one response. I had a difficult time choosing what information to include, as I didn’t know what information I should include. I overcame this challenge by organizing my research into sections, focusing on the key facts of each section, and removing the information that was repetitive or unnecessary.
Before my research, I thought that both Canada and the U.S. had equal education systems, as they provide equal standards for their students. After, I realized that the education systems weren’t all so equal, as one side, their students can be given some opportunities and preparation that are not provided to the other students who don’t live in that certain area, which can be unfair. An example is the SAT, which is a standardized test that American students take to show their reading comprehension levels and math skills to fellow admission officers. If Canadian students want to take it to apply for American schools, they don’t have the same level of SAT preparation as American students due to the absence of standardized tests in Canada. American students have access to a variety of SAT preparation resources, including practice tests, study guides, and tutoring services, which are not widely available in Canada. I also learned how Canada can be extremely hard on their students’ applications and resumes since there aren’t many available post-secondary schools in Canada compared to the U.S., making Canadians have fewer nearby choices of getting into post-secondary schools, as they might have to move and separate from all their family and friends to receive good quality education for their designated outcomes.
Investigating the differences between the two education systems has made me plan my educational path. For example, if I decide to apply to universities in the United States, I now know that I have to prepare for standardized tests like the SAT, which would require extra studying and preparation since Canadian schools don’t really focus their attention on it. This research also made me more aware of the different standards and opportunities that each country has for their students, which will help me recognize what I need to consider when deciding where I want to continue my education in the future. Even though I’m still far from postsecondary education, it is better to have an idea of your education plan and be prepared for the future than not.
This investigation will impact others globally and locally by helping people better understand the differences between the Canadian and U.S. education systems. This will raise awareness for teachers, educators, and parents about the opportunities and challenges within each system, helping them better prepare students for their future education paths. It could also encourage people to think about how education systems can improve and provide fair opportunities for students everywhere, no matter where they live, so that opportunities and education can be equal for all students.
Thank you for reading!
