big fish little pond effect : admission to singapore P1

‘Big fish, little pond effect’

Parents who are trying to get their children into top primary schools assume that their young ones will perform better academically if they attend school with other high-ability children.

But these parents should realise that this thinking actually runs counter to some sound educational research. Studies have shown that children may actually perform better in a less popular, or what researchers term "less selective", school. It's called the "Big fish, little pond effect".

Research into this effect suggests parents should focus on getting their child into a school that will boost his confidence in his academic ability. Children are likely to accomplish more, be more persistent and have higher aspirations if they feel competent in what they do, are confident and feel positively about themselves.