- ASIA EDUCATION REVIEW - JULY 202419skills and collaboration, thus, making them ready for the contemporary world.Parental and Societal Influence on Exam-Oriented LearningIn Hong Kong, both society and parents play an extremely significant role in the enhancement of exam obsession. Parents have a tendency to focus on academic success as one of the key success factors for their children, thus creating a culture of competitiveness and academic stress. This societal focus is based on the notion that exam results determine career prospects and social class. Thus, the students are forced to work hard and get good grades academically most of the time to the detriment of other aspects of life and other skills that may be useful in the future. This dynamic creates a pressure cooker environment where learners are bound to experience stress and anxiety as they go through a channel that is defined by academic performance as opposed to learning that includes creativity, critical thinking, and emotional well-being. Mitigating these pressures therefore requires a shift in culture to embrace a holistic view of education and the skills that are significant for one to live a fulfilling life.Alternative Educational Approaches and Their BenefitsThe educators and policymakers in Hong Kong are gradually turning their attention towards the other educational philosophies which originated in Asia. Current approaches include project-based education, experiential-based education, and competency-based education. These approaches focus on skill acquisition, innovation and learning that is student driven with an overall goal of developing a more harmonized student. For instance, Singapore's Skills Future focuses on continuing education and training after formal schooling, and career competencies that go beyond conventional disciplines to equip students for a variety of opportunities in a world economy. Likewise, Japan's focus on internships and community service develops student's practical skills and empathy as well. Through these nontraditional models, Hong Kong aims to foster people who do well in academics and are also equipped with the problem-solving and creativity that is requisite in the modern world.Conclusion: Though exam-oriented learning helps to assess the student's academic performance, this approach is problematic in terms of students' psychological well-being and personal growth. It is crucial for Hong Kong's youth to be equipped with creative, critical, and emotionally strong minds for facing the world that is rapidly changing and becoming more globalized; thus, accepting different educational approaches is vital. Therefore, by promoting a balanced education that not only encompasses the school's accomplishments but also encompasses practical skills, educators can facilitate students' success in the future, the enhancement of their creativity, and their contribution to society. It also enhances the quality of people's lives and educates the generations to come to become flexible and adaptable to the challenges that the world has in store for them. ER
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