In January the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) issued its Education Reform Plan for the 21st century. Presents an interview with Machimura Nobutaka, the minister in charge of MEXT, which outlines the Rainbow plan and some of the ideas behind the reform package. (ASK)

Describes educational reforms in Japan and presents an on-the-scene report of how the reforms are actually being carried out in different locations. (ASK)

Describes what educators can do to reverse the flagging fortunes of science in Japan. (MKR)

Provides an overview of the national education system today and presents some background to the latest round of reforms in Japan. Highlights new emphasis being placed on diversity and individuality in schools and on the promotion of lifelong learning. (ASK)

Describes the Japanese Language and Culture Assistants Program, which sent over 100 Japanese volunteers to teach Japanese language and culture in U.S. schools. Discusses the activities of four of the volunteer participants and results of the program. (LZ)

Describes how the protocol to extend the Japanese-U.S. Science and Technology Agreement for five more years will alter the shape of Japan-U.S. relations. (MDH)

Examines the educational environment in Japan since World War II. Assesses both elementary and secondary levels of education, and evaluates the psychology of dependence as a factor in the lack of freedom of expression in academic settings. Delves into the external and internal structure of Japanese cultural society. (CCM)