POLICY CHANGE IN TEACHER TRAINING: CHALLENGES TO ENHANCE ENGLISH EDUCATION IN JAPAN

Abstract

English language education and the lack of quality in its practical application in Japan has been a very common topic of discussion over the years. The main reason is that very little improvement has been noted in overall English ability among Japanese students despite a series of policy changes by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Japan. This paper examines the motivations for these policy initiatives and the problems associated with their implementation through documentation review and analysis. The findings of this research indicate that the lack of qualified teachers is likely responsible for the current poor English education environment and argue that improving teacher training programs will function as the key to enhancing English education in Japan. We clarify the confusing situation of teacher training and lay a foundation for future work which complements the current policies on English education.