In today's educational world, it is crucial for language teachers to continuously evolve in order to best serve language learners. Further study on the best practices and challenges in the language classroom is crucial to ensure instructors continue to grow as educators. The "Handbook of Research on Language Teacher Identity" addresses…

This book, with sequentially arranged chapters, allow practitioners, educators, and students to follow the expansion of school social work practice around the world. Leaders in the field from 12 countries provide eye-opening perspectives and interventions, selected for their range and application. Additionally, the book looks ahead to policy and…

Research on playground design in Japan and England offers challenges to the logic behind how playgrounds in the United States are designed. This paper presents observations of outdoor environments for children and youth in Japan and England where the space is not only useful and safe but also contributes to learning and play that reflects the…

Recalls the experiences of a group of high school social studies educators who traveled to Japan for an educational conference. Although impressed by the dedication and seriousness of the pupils, the group also was struck by the limited and outdated facilities. Includes many observations refuting stereotypical assumptions. (MJP)

Summarizes the survey responses of Japanese and non-Japanese environmental experts on aspects of environmental science and education. Provides perspectives on the concepts, roles, and relationships of environmental education and environmental science. A listing of survey participants is included. (ML)

Discusses environmental education (EE) in Japan by examining the historical background, the conservation stage (1947-1960), the Kogai stage (1960-1975), the development stage (1975-present), EE research, and environmental lectures as an effective interdisciplinary subject for undergraduates. Kogai is defined as harmful or unpleasant effects on…

Discusses the purpose, scope, conduct, and potential products of a United States study of education in Japan. The study will investigate the formal and informal means of education in Japan within its societal context to develop a series of insights for the improvement of U.S. education. (JN)

Presents a listing of resources of English language publications concerning science education in Japan. Consists of a section on science and engineering education and a three part section addressing the context for science education in Japan. Included are listings of publications, descriptive reports, and studies of schools. (ML)

Ways that good or successful Japanese learners of English develop their language skills in spite of large class size are examined, based on a study of 28 graduate students at a Japanese university. Analysis of responses about exam preparation, teacher role, listening, etc., suggest a need for more research on language learning strategies in…

Using several charts, this article compares strengths and weaknesses of Japanese junior high schools and American middle schools. Each system could learn something from the other. As an adaptive, reactive culture, Japan might benefit from a more flexible, diversified school atmosphere, while an individualistic, pluralistic United States might gain…

This teacher's guide presents teaching suggestions and presentation materials about natural resources as economic assets contributing to national economic productivity. The term "natural resource accounting" or "green accounting" is introduced for valuing natural resources as capital in economic systems. The lesson is divided…

This paper discusses how to motivate unsuccessful English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) learners in Japanese high schools. The first section examines the current status of teaching ESL to Japanese high school students. The second section focuses on how to motivate unsuccessful ESL learners (employing motivational strategies, creating a comfortable…

Based on a survey, college/university faculty salaries, working conditions, workload, and salaries in 10 countries (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Canada, United States, Australia, Japan) are compared and barriers to occupational and geographic mobility are identified. Suggestions are made for fostering academic…

This ERIC Digest asserts that the Japanese education system is one of the most influential agents molding Japanese youth. This influence is especially great due to the large amount of time students spend in schools. Six topics examine aspects of daily high school life: (1) Getting to School; (2) At School; (3) Extracurricular Activities; (4)…

Demonstrates a procedure for teachers to use when evaluating multicultural books by reviewing two primary-level nonfiction books about Japan. Analyzes the use of photographs and the representation of the culture. Points out that, although nonfiction is valuable when teaching about other cultures, teachers should critically examine such books. (CH)