”PISA” is a global academic ability survey conducted by the international organization OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development). It has been said that there is a positive correlation between PISA mathematics scores and a country’s economic growth and productivity. Up until the first year of high school, Japanese high school students are among the top OECD member countries in terms of mathematics literacy. However, in the case of Japan, this relationship does not hold. Japan’s GDP per capita is 21st out of 38 OECD member countries. The relationship between Japan’s PISA mathematics score and labor productivity growth rate deviates from the positive correlation. Some experts say that the problem lies in the university entrance exam.
Japanese university entrance exams are evaluated based on the ability to concentrate under pressure within a limited time. This method, in which examinees answer the same questions in the same time, is a good system in terms of fairness. However, in recent years, biases (distortions) lurking in the written exams for university entrance exams have been pointed out. They argue that it is necessary to introduce diverse evaluation methods. One example is the gender gap issue. The pressure of time limits that are unique to written exams tends to favor men over women. Cases have been reported in which women perform better on the same questions if there is no time limit. The disadvantages of university entrance exams are also a problem, but the problem also extends to improving abilities after entering. Learning and research at university are not just about the ability to demonstrate your abilities within a limited time. You also need teamwork and the tenacity to tackle difficult tasks over the long term. In many cases, these abilities cannot be fully evaluated by current university entrance exams.
By bringing together people with diverse abilities, universities can create new knowledge. As efforts are required to secure students with diverse abilities, questions have arisen as to whether written exams are the only neutral and fair method. Along these lines, the theory that fairness in university entrance exams does not mean equal opportunity based on a single standard is becoming recognized. Diversity brings different perspectives and ways of thinking, creating a breeding ground for new ideas. The mission of universities is to provide a place that diverse talents can be properly evaluated and each individual’s individuality can flourish. In particular, properly evaluating the talents of women will lead to improved innovation in society as a whole. This seems to be illustrated by examples of developed countries that women are active.