Active Learning, Theory and Application, and Japan’s New Course of Study Guidelines as They Relate to University Language Teaching

The aim of this report is to familiarize college instructors with Active Learning (AL), its basic features, theoretical underpinnings and classroom applications. The Self-Determination Theory of Ryan and Deci (2000) is presented to explain the positive attitude that many AL students develop towards learning. We introduce three levels of AL activities, low, intermediate and advanced, as defined by the European Council’s Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. We then review the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology’s (MEXT) recently issued Course of Study Guidelines (2018-2019), particularly as they relate to AL and university language teaching, and argue that a carefully managed and coordinated, institution-wide curriculum is needed as a foundation for successful AL implementation. However, the best chance of working toward MEXT’s objectives appears to be a well-trained, dedicated, and mutually supportive teaching staff.