This book proposes a new paradigm for English language teaching based on concepts from English for Specific Purposes (ESP) research and applications as well as from growing evidence relating pattern recognition to language learning ability. The contributors to the volume argue that learners should not try to become proficient all-around users of…

This study statistically investigates the characteristics of the intended curriculum for Japanese primary science, focusing on the learning content. The study used the TIMSS 2011 Grade 4 Curriculum Questionnaire data as a major source for the learning content prescribed at the national level. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to determine the…

This article presents the authors' critique of lessons proposed by the Partnership for 21st Century Skills (P21). The authors initiate a discussion about content that they hope will play out in schoolhouses and statehouses across the country. They take on a different task: they present a handful of lesson ideas from P21 that could enhance studies…

Review of technology-education curricula in the United Kingdom, Alberta, British Columbia, and Japan shows the following: (1) systematic introduction of technology education is a worldwide trend; (2) the UK emphasizes design and technology; (3) Alberta emphasizes vocational aspects; and (4) in Japan, subject and process are not articulated from…

The emphasis in teaching elementary and secondary economics education in Japan is upon real-life situations rather than upon concepts and generalizations. The actual content, however, does not seem to differ all that much from U.S. economics curriculum. (Author/RM)

This paper presents findings of a study conducted to identify where and how Japan is taught in the Canadian social studies curriculum. Social studies guidelines were obtained from the various provincial ministries of education in Canada and carefully scrutinized for treatment of Japan in the social studies. Findings are presented through a series…

This publication offers excerpts from the National Courses of Study revised by the Ministry of Education in Japan. The first section discusses curriculum for kindergarten. It states that lessons must be presented at least 39 weeks a year and the standard number of class periods per day should occupy four hours. Content is classified into four…

Reviews the changes in the Japanese social studies curriculum during the past 40 years. Summarizes the goals for a new curriculum as set forth by the Council for School Curriculum (Japan). Reports reaction to this proposal and points out inadequacies in the suggested scope and implementation of materials. (KO)

Traditional Buddhist education centered solely around the monasteries, since the Buddhist world did not offer educational opportunities apart from its monasteries. All education, religious as well as secular, was controlled by the monks, and involved the initiation ceremony into the Buddhist Order, the education of the monk, the viharus or…

Presents results of a questionnaire asking Japanese teachers how and what they teach about World War II. Reports that survey included broad and narrow questions on the war in Asia, Europe, and the Pacific. Concludes that Japan's postwar peace education has been a success but that more emphasis needs to be placed on cause and effect in history. (DK)

Observes that, although textbook reform in occupied Japan originally supported democratic principles of openness and competition, it later became a mechanism for anticommunist censorship. Maintains that interpretations of Japan's military conduct remain highly politicized and controversial. (MJP)

Maintains that current efforts to reform education and social studies are cycles of media hyperbole and political hope. Contends that issues underlying various programs are really about power and control. Argues that social studies has a role in making schools and students models of democratic thought and action. (CFR)

Compares questionnaire results sent to elementary and secondary school teachers in Indiana and Japan. Surveys how and what is taught about World War II. Reports teachers in the United States concentrate more on Europe, Pearl Harbor, and fascism, whereas Japanese teachers are more concerned with Pacific theater. Concludes Japanese teach peace…

Proposes ways in which the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's documentary series, "The Valour and the Horror," can be used to develop students' critical thinking skills. Asserts that the issues of historical accuracy provide excellent opportunities to discuss historiography, the role of the media in society, and human rights during…