Sir

The continuously improving performance of the United States in science and technology compared to any other country is contrary to the performance of 17-year-old US children (Nature 392, 5; 1998). This raises the question whether there is a need to change and improve standards in US schools.

The basic approach to teaching is different from that in most other countries. During early education in the United States, emphasis is placed on understanding basic concepts, whereas in other countries the emphasis is on memorizing things. These differences may play an important role in creativity and this may be why, when US children become adult, they outperform the rest of the world.

The recent results of the Third International Mathematics and Science Study are worrying. But, before making any changes in US teaching methods, the long-term advantages of existing teaching methods should be studied. Other factors such as the contribution of foreign-born scientists and money spent on science and technology need also to be considered.