Summary of the review of Thomas Meyer
For unto every one that hath, will be given: Educational inequality in Switzerland
Today, an educational diploma on Upper Secondary Level (in Switzerland: apprenticeship, matura, or similar) is essential for full participation in adult and professional life. A person who has no such diploma is subject to risk not only in the labour market but elsewhere too. At a time of accelerating social and technlogical change in which knowledge and skills quickly become obsolete, lifelong learning has become a necessity. The basis and absolute prerequisite for lifelong learning is a solid basic education. Its absence not only hampers lifelong learning and labour market participation, but partaking in societal life as a whole.The review by Thomas Meyer* analyses the different pathways, as well as the difficulties and hurdles which confront children and young people when achieving the ‘educational standard’ of the Upper Secondary Level diploma – or failing to do so. The research findings discussed show that the Swiss educational system, firstly, is characterized by a high level of inequality; secondly, it systematically violates the meritocratic principle and, thirdly, it boosts the influence of social origin in educational achievement.
These inequalities are aggravated by the fact that – from lower secondary level onward – study and training places in the Swiss educational system are virtually rationed, which results in bitter competition for such a place among the weaker ‘contestants’. As the author suggests, increasing capacity and fairer distribution of the places available, along with a reduction of selection hurdles throughout compulsory school, could lead to more equality in the Swiss educational system.
* This review is included in the German and French editions of the Swiss Social Report 2008 only.
Update: FORS