Independence and choice: Western impacts on Japanese higher education

Abstract

Japan’s universities were established in order to import Western knowledge and ideas to assist in the development of the nation beginning in the mid-19th century. Because it was never colonized and because it has sucessfully developed not only its academic system but also its economy, Japan is a particularly significant case study. Japan’s academic development can be seen in two phases. First there was a “window shopping” period in which many Western models were explored and some partially adopted. Second, there has been an “involvement” mode in which specific Western models are adopted. This essay follows the development of Japanese higher education through its various phases, including the post World War Two impact of the United States and the growth of a mass university system. The process of internationalization of various foreign influences is examined.