Considering the changes in society in the XNUMXst century, the full-scale knowledge-based society, the sophistication of the information-oriented society, and the globalization will rise.Education in Japan also needs to remain aware of these changes in society.

Focusing on global educational trends, the trend is for educational reform based on competencies (human abilities including skills and attitudes as well as knowledge).In order to respond to changes in society, it is urgent to develop these abilities, and in many more countries, the development of these abilities is an issue.

It can be said that the aim of developing these abilities is not only "what we know" but also "what we can do" in a qualitative shift in education.Japan has also experienced the so-called PISA shock, and educational reform aimed at fostering the qualities and abilities to survive in society is becoming more important as a national strategy in line with social changes and global trends.

In the revision of the next course of study, "School education that can ensure that children have the knowledge and power necessary to become the creators of the future even in the midst of rapid social changes such as informatization and globalization. We aim to "realize" (report).In order to realize this, we will clarify the qualities and abilities that should be nurtured, and at the same time, we will consistently emphasize the relationship with society, that is, the perspective that continues from childhood, elementary school, middle school, high school (large), and society, and at school. It can be said that it is necessary to make a qualitative shift in education from the perspective of the whole, the whole region, and the whole society, that is, the emphasis on raising children as a whole.

In the report, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology stated that "what you understand, what you can do (knowledge / skills)" and "what you understand / how to use what you can do" as "three pillars of qualities and abilities to be developed". (Thinking ability, judgment ability, expressive ability) "" How to relate to society and the world and lead a better life (ability to learn, humanity) "was shown.

In order to realize these developments, it is necessary to emphasize not only the quality and quantity of knowledge "what to teach" but also the quality and deepening of learning "how to learn". It is supposed to be.In addition to emphasizing the learning process, it is necessary to continue to verify whether "independent, interactive and deep learning" can be realized in school lessons (class improvement from the viewpoint of active learning). There is.In the course of study notification, the word "active learning" itself has disappeared, but the idea is still emphasized.

Furthermore, in line with these ideas, high school connection, that is, selection of university entrance exams, is about to undergo a major transformation.

Through the realization of "independent, interactive and deep learning", each person talks with others with their own thoughts on unanswered issues, compares and integrates their thoughts, and creates better answers and values. It can be said that this leads to the qualities and abilities to survive in society by aiming to develop the ability to find the next question, continue to learn, and create a healthy and prosperous future.

Professor, Faculty of Food Environment, Toyo University
Kenichi Goto