Monday morning meeting

To the editor:
    The Monday morning meeting is in fine form here in Korea. There are a few differences between the U.S. and Korea when it comes to hosting these meetings. But for the differences, the basic structure remains the same. It makes one wonder what is done and why it happens on a Monday.     Our meeting begins with the host asking us to stand and face the flag. This process is about a minute or so as we stand respectfully. The men placing their hands over their hearts, the women at respectful attention. This moment is silent. There is no obvious pledge of allegiance or other symbolic representation of fidelity. The moment of respect finished, it’s on to the central business of Monday: “What are we doing this week?”
    We begin with an overview of main events. This week, it is the final exam for students in the first and second year of the school. Korean high schools are three-year institutions. The third-year students are finished after taking the college entrance exam in the middle of November. They are done. Students in the remaining two years have their final exams in December.
    That is what is happening this week: Final exams. Tuesday we will begin testing. Tests will fill the morning hours, students will get a lunch, then the afternoon is for working on various projects and studying for the next round of testing. This will continue until Friday. We will have about 10 days more to complete the end of the semester and then students are done for the year. The academic year is from March to December.
    Unlike tests in the U.S., tests here are very mechanical oriented. Each student is given a card and this forms the answer sheet that will be submitted to the examiner. Students back home will rejoice in not having to write out their answers. This is for all subjects. Each question has a variety of possible answers, students pick the best one and make a mark on the card. This is terrific for bringing a scientific approach to evaluating whether students are successful at mastering their courses. All hail the punch card!
    At a typical Monday morning meeting in the U.S., there is the tray of donuts, fruit, and coffee urns. Small talk and scraps of paper are moved around the coffee cup sentries as people take their places. Here, it’s a time of work. Yes, you have your agenda sheet and notebook but you will not find a coffee cup. However, as reported in the morning newspaper, the sales of instant coffee have now surpassed the sales of rice in the buying habits of the Koreans. Pour me one for the class!