Commentary / World May 22, 2017

University admission tests warrant skepticism

The debate over privately managed exams for university admissions will make little difference because of the limitations of all standardized tests.

Commentary / Japan May 9, 2017

Helping all children reach their potential

When it comes to meeting the needs of children with disabilities, the contrast between Japan and the United States is jarring.

Commentary / Japan May 2, 2017

Teachers have fewer rights than students

A recent Tokyo High Court decsion unwittingly affirmed that students possess more free speech rights than teachers.

Commentary / Japan Apr 25, 2017

When high achievement is a pyrrhic victory

The results of tests of international competition have long been the sole basis for ranking a country's schools, but these tests fail to provide a complete picture.

Commentary / Japan Apr 18, 2017

Teach patriotism, not chauvinism

Despite its politically incorrect connotation today, patriotism is essential in any democratic society.

Commentary / Japan Apr 10, 2017

Modify instruction to improve English skills

English-language teachers in Japan can learn from athletic coaches.

Commentary / Japan Mar 14, 2017

Time to treat English teachers as professionals

If Japan wants to recruit and retain top English-speaking talent to the front of the classroom, it needs to ensure non-Japanese teachers are treated fairly.

Commentary / Japan Mar 6, 2017

It's time to get real about curriculum reform

Overhauling the curriculum to better prepare students for the future is commendable, but only if the changes are grounded in reality.

Commentary / Japan Mar 4, 2017

The shared shame of childhood poverty

Children who go to class without a good night's sleep and nourishing breakfast cannot possibly learn as much as their classmates.

Commentary / Japan Feb 19, 2017

Nursery schools: quantity and quality matter

Admission into nursery school is no assurance of a quality education.