The Educational System of Mexico.

Overview & Synopsis

Education in Mexico has been controlled by the Federal government since the 1930s, and has focused on increasing vocational/technical education to meet the growing demands of the nation's economy. Finances and guidelines regarding curriculums and standards come from the Federal government. The official language of instruction is Spanish, although Indian dialects are used in specialized rural programs. Although enrollment in noncompulsory preschool is low, over 75% of all students are enrolled in compulsory primary school. This comprises a six-year program emphasizing mathematics, Spanish language arts, and natural and social sciences. However, dropout rates are high. Secondary education, another six-year cycle, is offered in general and vocational schools as well as in open programs using television and self-instructional media. Vocational/technical education is offered in vocational/technical schools, institutions of professional studies, and regional technical institutes. Various types of institutions exist for teacher education and higher education. Several nonformal education programs offer literacy training in rural areas and occupational training to elementary school dropouts. Recent developments in Mexican education include increased enrollment and finances, and availability of free textbooks. (AV)