Inspirational math teaching matters more than IMO

The six-member team representing the United States took first place at this year's International Mathematical Olympiad, which was held in Chiang Mai, Thailand, from July 4 to 13. It was their first win since 1994. Chinese students usually win the competion. Comments:

For long, Chinese students at high schools and primary schools have been burdened with repeated and monotonous math practice, without the guidance of inspirational and joyful teaching. That, to some extent, has had a negative impact on students' imaginations after they grow up. It is not the IMO gold medals that really matter, but further improvement in China's math teaching methods on the basis of its advantages.

Beijing News, July 18