TOP College of International Professional Development School of International Professional Development Elementary education program

College of International Professional Development School of International Professional Development Elementary education program

Since April 2020, foreign language (English) education has been mandatory in elementary schools, which has made developing an international mindset from an early stage increasingly important. This course cultivates the teaching skills, English proficiency, and educational expertise required across all the necessary subject areas in elementary education, including morality, foreign language activities, and integrated study, through practical learning. A well-structured support system and small-class instruction ensure a rich learning experience. Students develop an international mindset and advanced English communication skills, preparing them to take an active role in the future of international education as elementary school teachers.
ALL English

Cultivating teaching skills through the study of all necessary subject areas

This program cultivates “practical teaching skills” across all the necessary subject areas, including Japanese, social studies, mathematics, science, foreign language (English), life environment studies, music, arts and crafts, home economics, and physical education, as well as morality and special activities. Instruction is provided by experienced faculty, including subject specialists with proven track records and professionals with experience in elementary schools and educational boards. Through a combination of theoretical study and practical application, students steadily develop their teaching abilities.

Small-class instruction with 50 students per academic year

Preparing students for employment exams and teaching practicums through our robust support system

With an impressive record in placing English teachers in junior high and high schools, Kansai Gaidai is also well-regarded for its elementary school teacher exam preparation. We offer a comprehensive support system, including hands-on experience through local partnerships and personalized career support.

Enhancing practical teaching skills through activities both on and off campus

Students aspiring to become teachers can enhance their abilities by enrolling in the Kansai Gaidai Student “On Demand” program, which provides opportunities to take part in activities both on and off campus, such as those listed below.

  • Kansai Gaidai Teaching Assistant Program (KTAP)

    Through involvement in elementary school classes and extracurricular support, we help students obtain a deeper understanding of the teaching profession.

  • Kids University Exploration Team

    Elementary students take part in activities held at the university, with students planning and managing the entire program.

  • Elementary School Active Learning Program

    Students create lesson plans and teaching materials and conduct “English classes” for local elementary school children.

Developing international education skills and English communication abilities

Under an educational policy based on an international education perspective, English classes are conducted an average of six times per week from the first year. Using a content-based approach, students improve their four core English skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—while developing their English communication abilities. Additionally, they acquire the skills needed to teach foreign language activities and English in elementary schools. Interested students can also take part in the “Overseas Training Program,” jointly developed with partner institutions abroad. This program fosters the communication skills and intercultural understanding that are essential in the era of multicultural coexistence. Interactions with children from diverse cultural backgrounds and hands-on experience in educational settings enable students to develop the ability to engage with elementary school students from a broader perspective in the future.

[Sunway University (Malaysia)]

Overseas training is conducted at Sunway International School, the only institution in Malaysia that incorporates the Canadian education system. Students enhance their English proficiency while deepening their understanding of English education and schooling in a multicultural society.

  • Educational setting observations and Japanese cultural presentations
  • Enrollment in ESL classes at Sunway University’s affiliated language school
  • Support activities at local child welfare facilities

  • Pass rates and employment rates among the highest in Japan

    With an international mindset cultivated over many years and nationally leading expertise in English teacher education, Kansai Gaidai has nurtured numerous individuals with a strong passion for education, as well as a strong international mindset and excellent English communication skills.

    • Elementary School Teachers
      Employment Exams
      Pass Rate

      73%

      (3-year average)

      A pass rate far exceeding the national average of 48% Comprehensive support system to prepare students for employment exams and teaching practicums

    • Employment Rate

      92%

      (3-year average)

      [Examples]
      Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, Sakai City, Shiga Prefecture, Yokohama City, Wakayama Prefecture, Hokkaido Prefecture, etc.

Message
from Faculty

Elementary School English I

Yuko Naoyama
Professor Yuko Naoyama

Elementary School English I

Developing the knowledge and skills necessary for foreign language activities and English classes in elementary schools through practical training

This course develops the practical English proficiency necessary to lead foreign language activities and English classes in elementary schools. Students learn core concepts behind elementary foreign language education, take part in real classroom activities, and apply this experience to designing basic lesson plans and teaching strategies, thereby building essential teaching skills through hands-on practical training.

Message
from Faculty

Hands-on experience in schools

Toshiyuki Urashima
Associate Professor Toshiyuki Urashima

Hands-on experience in schools

Deepening awareness of the rewards of teaching through hands-on experience in elementary schools.

Through continuous hands-on experience in schools as “Elementary School Teaching Volunteers,” students learn to understand each child’s individual strengths and needs while exploring practical ways to support them. By assisting teachers in elementary schools, students gain insights into the role of educators as members of the “school team.” This deepens their awareness of both the rewards and challenges of the teaching profession and further strengthens their motivation to pursue a teaching career.

Curriculm（PDF）