Among findings were that almost twice as many Japanese students preferred the intuitive approach to solving problems, and 27 percent of Japanese students regarded themselves as more intellectual than creative compared to 49 percent of American students studied. Preference by the Japanese students for verbal modes of learning as compared to their…

In this paper, characteristics of mathematics classrooms in the East Asian countries of Hong Kong and Japan are discussed based on an analysis of the data of the TIMSS 1999 Video Study. The data shows that although students in these East Asian countries did not talk a lot in the classroom, they were exposed to more instructional content. The…

In the fall of 2003, the author conducted research on the student teaching process in Japan. The basis for most of the lessons observed was rich mathematics problems. Upon returning to the US, the author used one such problem while teaching an algebra 2 class. This article introduces that problem, which gives rise to both linear and quadratic…

Reforming Japanese higher education will not be easy. Stagnant budgets, rigid seniority systems, and a conservative bureaucracy that fears losing control all stand in the way of change. A series of changes proposed by the former Prime Minister are discussed. (MLW)

Proposes causal field theory as a model of causal reasoning. Suggests that anomaly detection through comparison with natural events triggers causal reasoning. This anomaly is interpreted in terms of agency; therefore, natural phenomena can be understood through an appeal to agency. The mechanism proposed never changes with development, whereas…

This publication contains 20 learning activities for developing basic skills while teaching about Japan at the secondary level. The activities are self-contained and each consists of a short description, followed by a five-item true or false test and five open-ended questions for student practice. The learning activities are followed by a…

The Management-Oriented Systems Design Method (MASD) is used by the Institute of Information Technology (Japan) as one of its main training courses. An outline of the curriculum for this course is provided and major MASD features are discussed. (JN)

Compares the practice of using drawings in story problems in Japan and the United States and includes recommendations for teachers in the United States. (Contains 14 references.) (MKR)

Describes an interdisciplinary lesson consisting of seven activities for intermediate or middle level students. Focuses on calculating monetary exchanges between the United States and Japan, specifically the prices of real estate and other items, and comparing the economies and cultures of the two countries. Gives four activity sheets. (CMK)

This study evaluates the impact of a school-based intervention program on aggressive behavior among junior high school students in Japan. One hundred and four seventh-graders were enrolled in the program and completed Time 1, Time 2, and Time 3 surveys. The program was implemented in two classes between Time 1 and Time 2 surveys (the first…

The instructional media created by microcomputers interconnected by modems to form long-distance networks present some powerful new opportunities for education. While other uses of computers in education have been built on conventional instructional models of classroom interaction, instructional electronic networks facilitate a wider use of…

It is generally considered that diagram use aids efficacy of math word problem solving. While understanding diagrams is considered important in both New Zealand and Japanese secondary schools, there is an additional emphasis in New Zealand schools for students to appreciate their use as tools for problem solving and communication. This study…

Pragmatic and semantic problem solving are examined as processes that enhance acquisition of mathematical knowledge. It is suggested that development of mathematical cognition involves restructuring and that math teachers can help restructure children's knowledge systems by providing them with situations in which semantic and pragmatic problem…

Assessed attitude, computational preferences, and mental computational performance of 176, 187, 186, and 206 Japanese students in grades 2, 4, 6, and 8, respectively. Found wide ranges of performance on mental computation, that visual modes of presentation increased performance levels, and a narrow range of strategies. Contains assessments. (37…

The meeting reported here was held to address the issues related to the increasing numbers of foreign students in Japan (31,000 in 1989 and increasing annually by 20%). First, profiles of the speakers and the texts of their speeches are presented, as well as the comments made during the panel discussions and symposium sessions. Speakers from 11…