I would like to open up a discussion on learning methods around the world.

Malaysia's learning system is largely based on rote learning, or learning by memorization. Rote learning is often used in circumstances when you want to remember something quickly and when there is little logic in the process of coming to that learning. As an example, rote learning can be used when you are learning new languages.

However, rote learning does not encourage the mind to think. But requires the mind to memorize. I do not have good memory recall, so as a student I tried to find ways to make my learning to become more logical. I spent time learning and understanding principles before going into detailed learning.

Having been in both international schools overseas and experienced Malaysian schooling as a student and as a parent, I find that the learning philosophies employed in Malaysia is so different to that in other countries. My brother told me that the learning process in Australia was a very open canvas. Kids need not bring any books to school. The only thing they had to bring was a lunchbox packed at home with the right nutritional balance.

I was speaking to a youngster from Germany. I found out that kids do not sit for any exams until just before they enter into University. And European kids are encouraged to go to other countries to learn other cultures.

I would like to know more about other learning methods used in other countries. Feel free to share them here.