Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
21.5
Toward the Implementation of Basic Geography
The Science Council of Japan has established the aims and general framework of
Basic Geography; however, other course elements, such as specifi c content items, are
still in draft form. This chapter summarizes the specifi c learning content based on
this draft plan and the challenges of implementing these plans are outlined below.
The fi rst challenge is to verify the impact of the Basic Geography curriculum.
If a large number of schools implement this course in their capacity as designated
development schools, there is a high possibility that Basic Geography will be taught
as a compulsory subject in senior high schools. This is conditional upon the success
of the fi rst implementation phase before it is included in the next National Curriculum
Standards revision.
The next issue concerns school credits. The total credits for Basic Geography and
Basic History courses are four. Under present regulations, the minimum number of
credits to be taken is four, depending upon the school, students will only be able to
take compulsory subjects. Many senior high schools will probably teach elective
geography as well as compulsory subjects, but in schools where only four credits of
Geography and History are taught, students will have no freedom to select subjects.
The challenge is whether credit rules will change in the favor of Basic Geography.
The third concern is how to integrate technology into the classrooms. Basic
Geography recognizes the importance of maps and GIS, but how the geography
education community will impart GIS skills in schools is a real challenge.
Despite these challenges, Basic Geography promises a comprehensive course
that fosters students' basic knowledge of geographical phenomena, ways of viewing
and thinking about the world, and geographical skills that are critical to making
rational judgments and decision making for a peaceful and promising society.
References
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