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PART Recent Trends and Developments in Government Policies in Education, Science and Culture

Computers, videotex, high-definition television and other new information media have brought about a great potential for the development of new systems of learning which will overcome spacio-temporal limitations, for the enrichment of individualized instruction, for the diversification of learning opportunities, and for making learning more efficient.

With regards to the utilization of computers in school education, the Ministry has designated pilot schools (30 schools in 1991) for conducting studies on the utilization of computers in school education. The Ministry also commissions some prefectural boards of education to conduct studies on the utilization of computers and to develop model software of high quality to be used in school instruction.

Furthermore, various attempts are being conducted with a view to developing the utilization of new information media for the improvement of learning systems.

Regarding the University of the Air, the Ministry has been considering how to extend the coverage area for the broadcast of university programs. The National Institute of Multi-media Education has been engaged in the research and development of the content and methods of university education using mu1timedia.

The Ministry has also been conducting studies regarding the use of respective new information media for educational purposes. It is carrying out basic studies by subsidizing projects for developing effective multi-media teaching materials in which computers, video tape recorders and video decks are used in an integral way.