Global competence needs of foreign-language learners in Japan

2022 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 19K00840
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 02100:Foreign language education-related
• Research Institution: Nagoya University of Foreign Studies (2020-2022); Nanzan University (2019)
• Principal Investigator: Sakamoto Fern 名古屋外国語大学, 外国語学部, 講師 (30803887)
• Project Period (FY): 2019-04-01 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: global competence / global human resources / higher education / FL education / international education / intercultural competence

Outline of Final Research Achievements

This study aimed to address the lack of clarity around global competence education in Japan. Q-methodology was integrated into a Modified Delphi study to collect, refine and analyse stakeholder and expert opinions, and determine (a) what global competence constitutes in Japan, (b) the primary challenges of global competence development for students in Japan and (c) the role of FL education in global competence development in Japan. Findings suggest that while some aspects of global competence delineated in Western frameworks are similarly important in Japan, additional factors concerning self-expression and critical thinking require explicit attention in Japan. Based on my findings I have developed the first Japan-specific framework outlining the primary facets and challenges of global competence development for students in Japan. I hope this will be of benefit in guiding future global competence education efforts in Japan.

Free Research Field

intercultural competence education, FL education

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

The success of Japan's "global jinzai" initiatives has been questionable. This research provides a Japan-specific framework for global education to facilitate more effective programs and pedagogy for global competence development in Japan.