Japanese classrooms host Aussie teachers

Lessons in modern technology and computers were found to be lacking in Japanese schools during a recent tour by foreign educators. The group also found room for improvement in English language classes however Japanese teachers were deemed to have a high profile and the student crime rate was low. In all, 85 educators from 26 countries were invited to assess schools in Tokyo, Hiroshima, Kyoto and Matsuyama last December. The group included four Australian teachers, with specialisation in social studies, geography, fine arts and other studies. Selected by the education departments of several Australian states and the Japan Foundation in Sydney, the aim was to give them a better understanding of Japan and help improve the Japanese education system. It is hoped the visitors will also incorporate Japanese studies into the curriculum of their respective countries.