Part of the reason surely has to do with the economy. In Finland, two sectors are highly subsidized via R&D: Information Technology (Nokia) and Forestry (which

Part of the reason surely has to do with the economy. In Finland, two sectors are highly subsidized via R&D: Information Technology (Nokia) and Forestry (which is highly scientific). Interesting article: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071127.rmtimber1127/BNStory/robColumnsBlogs/ http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071127.... These two drivers for the economy surely reinforce the importance of science and math in school. Students are more focused on areas of study with practical applications (jobs) in their own country - hence high math and science scores. And where you have more competition you have a positive feedback look (Kenyan Runners: http://gladwell.typepad.com/gladwellcom/2007/11/kenyan-runners.html http://gladwell.typepad.com/gladwellcom/2007/11/kenyan-runne...) My two cents anyways.