Questions Japan's ability to maintain its economic success without substantially changing its approach to education. Discusses international responses to the nation's level of exports, the maturing and stabilization of its economy, and the rapid aging of its population and work force as trends that may require significant change. (BC)

Presents information on Japanese engineering education and productivity which shows that education in Japan has been an instrument to achieve economic ends. Among areas addressed are development of educational policy, industry role, emphasis on engineering since end of World War II, studying in United States, and adaptive approach to…

Addresses the relatively recent increase in Japan in expenditures for research and development (R&D) and the education of a large pool of doctorate-level engineers capable of performing more fundamental research. Compares the differences in Japanese and American R&D funding, university research budgets, and university-industry linkages.…

Expresses concern for the development of graduate education programs in technological fields in Japan. Compares and contrasts the educational systems of Japan and the United States. Claims that graduate education in Japan has not absorbed the flexibility and open structure of American education. (TW)