Wouldn't quite say that is true. People use a variety of techniques to get scored higher and there's always a certain percentage who will use such rote learning techniques, be it eastern or western.
I think what what's missing in the discussion is the western focus on individualism as compared to east asian communitarianism. Both have their pros and cons and mutual dislikes.
There was a book by 2 high level western/eastern women managers in Hewlett Packard that highlights this dichotomy. It's a great read.
Again, that's because of a deep rooting in Confucianism. Also, "Communitarianism" is a western (Christian) philosophy. It may have been borrowed from Confucianism? I'm not sure. A lot of religions and philosophies share these kinds of values, so it's not unique to just one region / culture, IMO.
Anyhow, neither is better or worse, and probably a balance between communitarianism and individualism is best. All cultures can learn from each other.
In contrast to eastern education which tends to greatly focus on memorization through repetition.. (i.e https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rote_learning)
The quote you have included is based on Taoism. Is that common? I was under the impression that Confucianism has the more dominant influence on values and thought.
Anyways, at least that's one thing we can agree on - Taoism's philosophy encourages an open mind and awareness.