Toward implementation of multicultural education : a case study on multicultural competencies of university students in Northern Japan
Degree Name
MA in Intercultural Service, Leadership, and Management
First Advisor
Martha Merrill
Abstract
It is still rare to see multicultural programs implemented at Japanese educational institutions, and research in Japan has overlooked holistic study on youths' multicultural competencies. If effective programs are to be designed, it is vital to understand such competencies. This case study investigates the multicultural competencies of students who are "over-represented" members of society at Sapporo Gakuin University in Hokkaido, Japan. Observation, field notes and interviews were used to collect data. In this study, most learners were found to equate "culture" with "national culture" and to show an inability to recognize sub-groups within society. Additionally, many students were found to be uninterested in sub-groups and social issues/change, and to have little knowledge of or connection with these. Some students' difficulty in interacting with people who are unlike them and lack of skill in addressing difficult issues with under-represented students were studied.
Recommended Citation
Ishikawa, Sonoyo, "Toward implementation of multicultural education : a case study on multicultural competencies of university students in Northern Japan" (2005). Capstone Collection. 1598.
https://digitalcollections.sit.edu/capstones/1598