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APU is proud to announce that it has been selected for
the Good Practice Awards
(Contemporary Education Needs Initiative Support Program)
by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports,
Science and Technology two years
running.
Vice President Yakushiji Kimio answers
some questions regarding the program and
recent efforts by APU. |
APU Vice President
YAKUSHIJI Kimio |
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What is the
“Contemporary Education Needs Initiative Support Program”? |
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Academic Appraisal
This is an initiative of the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, or MEXT, to support and promote universities that are conducting initiative educational reform. By offering these awards, the Ministry is not only rewarding universities for their outstanding education and academic programs, but also aiming to improve the quality of other universities across Japan in general. Receipt of this award reflects the high expectations placed on APU by both MEXT and the public in general. |
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What is “Dual Language Education”,
the field APU was selected for this year? |
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APU Fundamental Concept - Dual Language Education
The objective of dual-language education is multifaceted; we aim to enhance students' ability to solve problems and formulate policies at an advanced level in addition to developing their language and communication skills. One of the features of this system is that it allows for the integration of language education and specialized study, as students use their language skills during intercultural communications and as part of their advanced studies. Language skills in English or Japanese alone do not ensure a person can function competently in the international arena. A person must be able to express themselves linguistically at the highest level and be able to understand various cultures and values. These goals are being achieved through the dual-language education system.
Well-developed Learning Process
The language education at APU is backed by language education theories such as courses with clearly defined goals, content-based learning and the adjunct model. Approximately equal numbers of subjects are conducted in both Japanese and English. For example, students who enter APU based on their Japanese ability are able to study the English language while taking other subjects held in Japanese. After their third year of study, they may also begin to take advanced lecture subjects held in English. This system of gradual progression allows our students to work at the forefront of international business and society upon graduation. |
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How does APU promote student mobility,
the field of selection in 2004? |
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Fostering the ability to solve problems in English
APU was selected as a Good Practice University by MEXT. Here at APU we aim to foster students who have the ability to solve problems using their English ability and who will serve at the forefront of international society. APU boasts students from 75 countries and regions comprising almost half of the overall student population, interacting and sharing knowledge and information with domestic students. Furthermore, almost half of the subjects on offer are conducted in English.
Diverse Opportunities to Study Abroad
Activities to enhance English ability are based on three points − English language education, study-abroad programs and regular classes held in English. The main aim of these activities is to increase students' English level and communication skills to allow them to use the language for academic purposes. APU offers a range of study-abroad options including student exchange, language programs, fieldwork, internships and participation in international student conferences. However, students are not limited just to programs offered directly by the university. APU encourages students to seek out their own study options by offering to approve credits. Students are also able to maintain their English ability upon their return to APU, by communicating with the many international students on campus or taking lectures held in English. |
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What skills will these programs foster in students? |
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These programs are designed to foster professionals for the world stage. To survive in the international arena, graduates will need language ability, intercultural communication skills, and advanced problem-solving ability. The dual-language education system and student mobility are two programs specially designed to respond to these needs. I plan to continue efforts to improve the quality of education by enhancing these programs further in the future.
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Still
in the Spotlight
— Selection
as a Good Practice University by MEXT — |
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＜Graduate
Schools Corner＞ |
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