Ethnocentric models of disability have resulted in an ontology that rarely embraces the cultural nuances and social structures of specific countries. There have been increasing calls from scholars to expand understandings of disability beyond this hegemonic focus and develop new ways to do culturally specific and respectful inclusive work.…

This report highlights findings from the "Happy Schools Project: Capacity Building for Learner Well-being in the Asia-Pacific (Phase II)" pilots in Japan, Lao PDR and Thailand from 2018-2020. The aim of the pilots was to promote happiness in schools through enhanced learner well-being, social emotional learning and holistic development…

Used data from the Third International Math-Science Study to examine the working conditions and beliefs of Japanese, German, and United States teachers. Core teaching practices and teacher beliefs showed little national variation, but other aspects of teachers' work showed variation. Models of national cultures of learning may overemphasize…

Compares elementary mathematics instruction in Taiwan, Japan, Chicago, and Minneapolis. Finds that American teachers are overworked and devote less time to conducting lessons than Asian teachers, who employ proven inductive methods within the framework of standardized curricula. (DM)

Described are the individual problems and frustrations encountered by three Japanese teachers working within a rigid school system. Without calling specific attention to the parallel, the situations described in the article could easily be applied to many American schools. Much attention is given to student evaluation problems. (MA)

U.S. teacher recounts his experiences in a Japanese school. He found that Japanese students respected their teachers more than their mothers. Students and teachers formed profound attachments, and teachers encouraged students to develop strong moral values. (SM)

Five teachers of English at the secondary level in Japan agreed to participate in this qualitative study that set about uncovering their beliefs about teaching and their current curricular activities. Findings indicate that despite their vastly different workplaces, teacher-participants continue to work in the shadow of an educational system…

Describes observations of art education in a Japanese junior high school during a three-month period in 1990. Discusses the teacher's role, classroom environment, course objectives, and teacher-student interaction. Identifies cultural differences and how they affect instructional methods and student achievement. (CFR)