How Bad Genius's Portrayal of Cheating Mirrors Real-Life Pressures in Education

Cheating in Education: A Growing Problem

In the 2018 Thai film "Bad Genius," a group of high school students devise an elaborate cheating scheme to pass a standardized test. The film highlights the pressures that students face in competitive educational systems, and the lengths they will go to succeed.

Cheating has become a significant problem in education worldwide. Studies have shown that up to 70% of students admit to cheating at some point during their academic careers. Factors contributing to cheating include high-stakes testing, fear of failure, and a lack of understanding.

Bad Genius's Accurate Depiction of Student Stress and Desperation

"Bad Genius" accurately portrays the stress and desperation that students feel in high-pressure educational environments. The film shows how students are pushed to their limits academically, and how this can lead them to engage in unethical behavior. Studies have shown that students who experience high levels of stress are more likely to cheat.

The Film's Message: Education Should Focus on Understanding, Not Memorization

"Bad Genius" ultimately argues that the current educational system is flawed. The film advocates for a shift towards an educational approach that focuses on understanding and critical thinking, rather than rote memorization and high-stakes testing.

Research has shown that students who learn through understanding are more likely to retain information and apply it to new situations.

Conclusion

"Bad Genius" is a powerful and thought-provoking film that shines a light on the dark side of education. The film's portrayal of cheating is unflinchingly honest, and it raises important questions about the pressures that students face in competitive educational systems.