About

Statement

Preparing Educators to Shape the Future

The School of Education at the University of Fukui is dedicated to developing educators who can proactively address the complex and evolving challenges of modern school education. Our mission is to foster professionals who create learner-centered environments, adapt to societal changes, and contribute to the sustainable development of education and society.

We emphasize the seamless integration of theory and practice through a collaborative framework involving schools, communities, and the university. This approach, known as the “Liaison Learning Network,” enables students to cultivate expertise, refine their teaching skills, and grow as reflective practitioners, ready to meet the demands of a dynamic educational landscape.

Message from the dean｜Overview of the School of Education

Shaping the Future Through Education

Raising children is synonymous with nurturing individuals who will shape a new era and create a brighter future. To be involved in education means to build the most vital foundation for a sustainable society. In today’s fast-paced world, where immediate results are often demanded and values are frequently judged by short-term outcomes, educators must possess a vision that looks beyond the present, envisioning a future where efforts blossom and bear fruit over time.

At the same time, it is essential for educators to grasp the essence of the evolving demands of society, challenge existing frameworks, and maintain an open and flexible mindset. I believe that the core and enduring appeal of being a teacher lies in sustaining a youthful spirit and the ability to adapt and grow continuously.

The Faculty of Education at the University of Fukui has a history of over 70 years, beginning with its establishment at the former University of Fukui in 1949. Throughout this time, we have consistently cultivated talented individuals, including many school teachers, who contribute to the development of the local community. In April 2016, we reorganized into a new Faculty of Education, comprising the “Elementary Education Course” and the “Secondary Education Course,” with the aim of training highly skilled and dedicated teachers. Our programs focus on equipping educators with expertise across various subjects and fields, practical teaching skills, and the ability to address challenges in real-world educational settings.

Our curriculum emphasizes a broad, cross-curricular perspective, fostering organizational and practical skills for independent and collaborative learning, a specialized understanding of special needs education, practical ICT-integrated teaching methods, and strategies for promoting cooperation between local communities and schools. We aim to develop educators who can effectively tackle and resolve the multifaceted issues facing modern education.

Building on these achievements, the Faculty of Education was designated as a “Flagship University for Teacher Training” by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology in 2022. This recognition underscores our role as a leader in reforming teacher training in Japan. In collaboration with the United Graduate School of Teacher Education, we are fostering a rich, child-centered learning environment that anticipates the nine years of compulsory education. We aim to develop teachers who can transform perspectives on learning and teaching and contribute to the diversity of education in collaboration with various stakeholders.

The kindergartens, compulsory education schools, and special needs schools affiliated with our faculty serve as hubs for research and development, addressing emerging educational challenges. These institutions also act as centers for teacher training, local teacher education, and professional development, in partnership with the Faculty of Education and the United Graduate School of Teacher Education. Together, we are implementing innovative educational practices.

Although compact in scale compared to other teacher training faculties in Japan, our faculty offers a comprehensive system where students can obtain licenses for elementary school, ten middle and high school subjects, special needs schools, and kindergartens. Our curriculum ensures a seamless integration of theoretical knowledge and practical application, fostering a close-knit academic community characterized by strong connections between students and faculty.

All faculty and staff work as a unified team to support those who aspire to lead the future of education and schools. At the Faculty of Education, you will find a collaborative environment where you can grow alongside your peers while tackling a variety of challenges. Together, let us unlock the potential of our children and our own futures.

Masako SHIBUYA
Dean, the School of Education

About the School of Education

A Comprehensive and Innovative Learning Environment

The School of Education at the University of Fukui offers a unique educational experience that blends theoretical foundations with practical application. Central to our curriculum is the “Liaison Learning Network,” which fosters collaboration among students, faculty, and the community to create an interactive and interdisciplinary learning environment.

Key Features of the School

Advanced Educational Programs: Our programs, designated as Flagship Teacher Education Subjects by the Ministry of Education, are at the forefront of teacher training reform. Key initiatives within these programs include:

• Collaborative Learning Support Projects: Fostering teamwork and inquiry-based learning across disciplines.
• Psychological Development Support Projects: Enhancing empathy and interpersonal skills.
• STEAM Education and Integrated Inquiry: Preparing educators for 21st-century challenges by integrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
• Community-Based Practicums: Offering hands-on opportunities to address real-world challenges through reflective practice.
• Specialized Licenses: Students can obtain multiple teaching licenses in areas such as primary and secondary education, special needs education, and early childhood education, broadening their career opportunities and enabling them to meet diverse educational needs.

Through these innovative programs, we aim to nurture educators who possess advanced teaching expertise, practical skills, and a lifelong commitment to learning.