CECILIA FUJISHIMA (SHIRAYURI UNIVERSITY)

DEVELOPING GLOBALIZED CURRICULA FOR INTERNATIONAL UNDERSTANDING : INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION AND GLOBAL COMPETENCIES

This presentation examines the development of English-medium instruction (EMI) classes aimed at cultivating global citizens capable of forming positive, respectful relationships, particularly in Asia. The presentation first provides an overview of key aspects of Japan’s education policy: a) the seemingly contradictory objectives of globalization and nurturing Japaneseness, and b) promoting the development of “global human resources” who can compete on the international stage. Next, a brief historical overview explores Japan’s challenges in developing mutually respectful relationships and highlights the importance of building strong relationships. Having established the teaching context, the presentation transitions to discuss pedagogy and content tailored to meeting these objectives. The pedagogical approach has been developed with the classroom as a microcosm of international society, developing community through communication, cooperation, curiosity and respect for differences. Class content is chosen to further these objectives and balances teachers’ academic specialties with student outcomes. The content is chosen to create connections that enable students to reflect constructively on the past and explore fresh perspectives that focus on a common future, bridging the gap between “being Japanese” and being international. Although this presentation centers on Japan, the ideas discussed are applicable in broader educational contexts.

Cecilia Smith Fujishima is a full-time lecturer at Shirayuri University in Tokyo. She has an MA in Global Studies from Sophia University. She has taught in Australia, China, Thailand and Japan and has a strong interest in developing globalized curricula to further international understanding.