Global Trends: IDT in Japan

Country

In Japan, IDT is a fairly new phenomenon--it never really took hold until human resource professionals started to look at e-learning for corporate training. At first, it was merely about making learning materials look more professional online. Gradually, it evolved into "the systematic process for bringing about effective results in education and training" (Page 240). IDT has been growing since then, although it has not grown as rapidly as in other countries such as the United States. Japanese businesses seem to have higher internal bars to clear in terms of linking performance results with the company's bottom line (Page 240).

Japanese schools have been much more receptive to IDT. As schools have integrated technology into the curriculum, opportunities for using IDT principles have increased. The Japanese government has offered training for teachers to learn about using IT in their instruction, and resources have sprung up online that will help build skills and impart strategies (Page 240). However, like the US, these measures are not mandatory, and some teachers are not so interested in using technology. In this way, there is the risk of a digital divide among some teachers, and consequently, their students (Page 242).

Resources

1. Japan: Educating students tothink independently in confronting the challenges of modern society. This video from the Pearson Foundation looks at the evolution of schooling in Japan. Japanese schools are stereotyped as very rigid, and that they discourage creativity and individuality. In the 1980s, new economic realities necessitated changes in the Japanese school structure. This video discusses many of those changes, as well as a new philosophy valuing creative thinking and independence.
2. The Overseas HumanResources and Industry Development Association (HIDA). This organization works to provide HR development through training and expertise. The organization serves developing countries, but is based in Japan, and thus offers a look in how ID is practiced in Japan.

Works Cited

Reiser, Robert V.; Dempsey, John V. (2011-03-14). Trends and Issues in Instructional Design and Technology (3rd Edition). Pearson HE, Inc.. Kindle Edition.