'SUFFERING CAN BE A GOOD THING': Sure, that may sound a bit Buddhist. But according to Jim Stigler (UCLA professor of psychology who focuses on teaching and learning), this axiom marks a contrast in how Eastern and Western cultures tend to approach struggling students. He observes that American classrooms tend to stigmatize struggle as a sign of weakness, whereas in Asia it is often valued as a sign of persistence and emotional strength. "Obviously if struggle indicates weakness...it makes you feel bad, and so you're less likely to put up with it. But if struggle indicates strength...you're more willing to accept it." Agree or disagree?
