On July 16, 2015 I gave a presentation at the Saitama Municipal Institute of Education. The purpose of the presentation was to update the city’s ALTs on the development of the Global Studies Program. Many of the concepts that were central to the presentation came from documents produced by Saitama City and MEXT. One key document was the Second Basic Plan for the Promotion of Education.
The basics of educational goals in Japan
One of the key points to the workshop was developing an understanding of the Global Studies program from as wide a view as is possible. The major goals of education, for example, should be found in a recognizable form in any given lesson. These are:
- Develop social competencies for survival
- Develop human resources for a brighter future
- Build safety nets for learning
- Build bonds and establish vibrant communities
The goal of Global Studies, which is strongly related to the above goals is:
~To raise students who can act independently, and live rich, vigorous lives for a bright future in a global society~
Other key concepts related that are central to Global studies are the ability to resolve issues, take independent action, develop respect for others, have pride in one’s own identity, and have a rich zest for life- all within an increasingly global society.
Development of curricular patterns
One of the key points to this presentation was a description of the curricular patterns that were emerging from English Education Research Model Schools. In essence these were as follows:
- An emerging awareness for the need of balanced interplay between instruction and assessment
- The use of CAN-DO Lists to inform curriculum, instruction and assessment
- The importance of a 9 year vision for teachers at all stages
- The development of units of study that incorporate all of the above
Issues faced in the development of Global Studies
During the workshop major issues that were emerging in English Education Research Model Schools were also presented. These can be seen below. 
