The Historical Foundations of the Japanese Education Policy

Abstract

This research deals with the historical foundations of education system in Japan. The research is also raising the problematic issue of the relationship between education and the success of the country, since Japan has become a model of sustainable development lately and during the Meiji era 1868-1912.

The school traditional extends deeply in Japan history and its origins date back to the reign of Tokogawa where there were many forms and varied functions and terms of reference at the time of voluntary isolation, On the other hand Commodore Perry campaign (1853-1854) was a strategically event in the Japan history. Tokugawa was forced to open up and signing treaties with the United States and other western countries.

Japan needed a great speed to achieve its goals of development; within this context, Meiji government sent many of the educational missions abroad (Britain, France, Germany and the United States...) and signed contracts with Western experts who acquired competence and knowledge.

Few years after, Japan's students returned with success to replace the western experts. They occupied strategic positions in the new Japanese administration which was ready for change and development.