Why the United States Should Look to Japan for Better Schools - New York Times

In Japan, it is recognized that teachers need to learn how to teach effectively and need to constantly re-evaluate their methods in order to improve. A central ministry carefully studies and designs the curriculum taught in schools. On the other hand, in the United States, there is an expectation that people can automatically teach effectively. Education also varies by state and even by neighborhood. Each state has its own standards and curriculum; as a result, there is no overall quality control.