The English in Japanese university entrance examinations: a sociocultural analysis

This paper examines the English in Japanese university entrance examinations within a sociocultural and historical context. The values and world view of the Japanese are reflected in their educational system, in the methodology for language teaching and teacher training, in the materials and curriculum, and in the methods of evaluation. The kind of English used in the examinations both mirrors and reinforces general attitudes about language, language learning, and national interests, resulting in a closed system highly resistant to change. Advocates for change must engage all levels of the educational system while addressing the needs of government and the private sector.