Inclusive Education Initiatives and Future Prospects in Japan

Abstract

In recent years, Japan has implemented significant changes to its special needs education system in compliance with the 2014 Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This chapter explores the current state and issues pertaining to comprehensive, inclusive education in Japan. The author also discussed the significance and challenges of developing inclusive education through a field survey and interviews with elementary and high schools that practice a full inclusive education system. In addition, two school principals, teachers, and educational consultants from the boards of education took part in these interviews. As part of the primary school survey, the focus was on a sixth grader who requires dedicated medical care, while the secondary school survey was based on the endeavored shift to universal design for learning (UDL). Subsequently, a prospective prognosis for inclusive education in Japan is presented based on the findings.