Education for International Understanding: An Examination of the Japanese Approach in the Period for Integrated Study

This article examines the Japanese program of Education for International Understanding (EIU) which has as one of its purposes the understanding of global issues and different cultures. This program, usually taught during the period for integrated study instruction at Japanese schools, gives teachers and students opportunities to learn about international issues through the study of geography and the natural environment, often with the direct participation of foreign guests or experts. To gain insight into the theoretical foundations for the Japanese interdisciplinary approach toward EIU, this study examines the actual content and classroom activity within two lessons of the period for integrated study in Ousu elementary school, a typical municipal elementary school in Nagoya, Japan. A case study method based on participant observation was the primary methodological approach for data collection. A detailed description and analysis of the lessons are provided, examining in particular the responses of students to the lesson plans, and to interactions and discussion taking place between teachers, students and international guests. Overall feedback received from participants was positive, suggesting a high level of effectiveness for this model of EIU. The article includes a discussion of the international applicability of Japanese EIU as well as potential areas of further research.