I agree with squezada that the time frame on each country is expansive. The idea of catering the seminar for a middle school and high school seminar would help in better integration in our curriculum.
The use of the exam system in the Choson dynasty made an impression on me. The passing standards were so only a few qualified to serve in the civil , military etc. Although I can see how these exams are not open to all the citizens or the majority that lack the education from lower classes.
Overall through our sessions it's interesting to see how Buddhism is practiced as a religion or as philosophy to govern institutions, and it being easily integrated along with Confucius. Early kings were seen as living examples of Buddhas. Also as mentioned in lecture the difference between Buddhism practices on a more textual basis vs. meditational.
I was talking to ISLC's Korean instructor, and she is planning on mimicking the teaching style for the introductory consonants as Dr. Kim did. Can't wait to see if it helps.
Under the civil service exam an equitable progression through the ranks of government was attainable. The system sounds like our present day entrace exams for education, employment, and some promotions. I wonder if the scoring system remained the same throughout its history? Were the teacher's evaluations based upon student performance? Students in my classroom might want to consider how vital a test like this was in determining the rest of their professional careers. Is this a test they would be able to master if their lives depended upon it?
I was mostly interested on the facts of the entrance exams, and the rate of passing of those exams. It reminds me a lot of the testing systems we have today with the college board, the assessment test when entering college, even a US constitution test before I could beggin teaching. I am not a big fan of testing, but I guess its a global reality that I am going to have to live with for now.
I also enjoyed learning about Hangul and forming some of the basic characters with our bodies! This is a great way to get kinetic learners involved. In my case, some of my beginning ELL's would really benefit from this method.
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