WHY KUMON IS BAD

Understanding Kumon: A Supplementary Education Program

Kumon is a supplementary education program designed to develop children's math and reading skills. Founded in Japan in 1954, Kumon has grown into a global franchise with centers in over 50 countries. The program follows a structured curriculum, with students advancing through levels at their own pace.

Potential Benefits of Kumon

Proponents of Kumon often cite the following potential benefits:

• Enhanced academic performance: Kumon students may improve their math and reading skills, potentially leading to better grades in school.
• Increased confidence: The program’s individualized approach and emphasis on incremental progress may boost students’ confidence in their abilities.
• Improved study habits: Kumon requires consistent practice, which can help students develop good study habits that benefit them throughout their academic careers.

Drawbacks and Criticisms of Kumon

While Kumon may offer some potential benefits, there are also a number of drawbacks and criticisms associated with the program:

Excessive Focus on Drill and Repetition

Kumon relies heavily on drill and repetition, which can be tedious and uninspiring for students. This approach may lead to rote learning, where students memorize information without truly understanding it.

Narrow Curriculum

Kumon’s curriculum is narrowly focused on math and reading, neglecting other important subjects such as science, social studies, and creative arts. This limited curriculum may not adequately prepare students for a well-rounded education.

Lack of Individualized Instruction

While Kumon claims to offer individualized instruction, the program’s structured curriculum and large class sizes often prevent teachers from providing personalized attention to each student. This can be particularly problematic for students who need additional support or who learn at a different pace.

Potential for Burnout

Kumon’s intensive workload and emphasis on constant progress can be overwhelming for some students, leading to burnout and a loss of motivation. The program’s rigid structure may also stifle creativity and discourage independent thinking.

Financial Cost

Kumon can be a significant financial burden for families, with monthly fees often ranging from $100 to $200. This cost may be prohibitive for many families, particularly those with multiple children.

Alternatives to Kumon

Parents who are considering Kumon for their child should carefully weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of the program. There are many other supplementary education options available, such as:

• After-school tutoring: One-on-one or small-group tutoring can provide students with personalized instruction and support in specific subjects.
• Online learning platforms: Many online platforms offer interactive lessons, practice exercises, and personalized feedback, allowing students to learn at their own pace.
• Public library resources: Public libraries often have a wealth of free resources available, including books, videos, and online resources, that can help students learn and reinforce skills.

Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not Kumon is right for a particular child is a complex one. Parents should carefully consider the child’s individual needs, learning style, and financial situation before making a decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Kumon?

Kumon is a supplementary education program designed to develop children’s math and reading skills.

2. What are the potential benefits of Kumon?

Potential benefits include enhanced academic performance, increased confidence, and improved study habits.

3. What are the drawbacks and criticisms of Kumon?

Drawbacks include excessive focus on drill and repetition, narrow curriculum, lack of individualized instruction, potential for burnout, and financial cost.

4. Are there alternatives to Kumon?

Yes, there are many other supplementary education options available, such as after-school tutoring, online learning platforms, and public library resources.

5. How can I decide if Kumon is right for my child?

Parents should carefully consider their child’s individual needs, learning style, and financial situation before making a decision.