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PART lssues and Perspectives of Elementaryand Secondary Education

In recent years. stipulating the promotion of excellence of the people as a priority in national policies. many advanced nations have adopted concrete measures to maintain and improve educational standards. The United Kingdom, for example, has introduced the "National Curriculum" and "Standard AssessmentTask". In the United States, on the other hand, requirements for high school graduation are being upgraded and common core curricula are being introduced? in most of the states.

Since the introduction of a modern educational system through the promulgation of the Government Order of Education in 1872, the educational system of Japan has undergone a number of amendments and revisions in order to respond to changes in society. Consequently, elementary and secondary education in Japan today receives international acclaim in its diffusion and quality.

Chart -1-1 Organization of School System in 1989

This section outlines the development of educational policies since the end of World War . It will trace elementary and secondary education in Japan during that neriod in terms of the exrpansion of educational ornortunities and the imnrovement of educational standards.