Japan’s active learning method to be introduced in 3 public schools in Cebu

Three public schools in Cebu City were chosen by the Japanese government as pilot areas for the introduction to the Knowledge Constructive Jigsaw (KCJ), an active learning concept and teaching techniques.

The system aims to train Filipino students into becoming experts through collaboration.

KCJ is one of the strategies under Japan’s active learning methodology that deviates from traditional teachercentered model of lectures and habitual memorization. It is seen to boost engagement and participation of students in classrooms.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) announced that the selected pilot schools in Cebu are the Guadalupe Elementary School, Cebu City National Science High School and the Mandaue Comprehensive National High School.

“Through the project, JICA aims to share Japanese know-how and techniques in implementing 21st century education model that veers away from spoon-fed educational experience to techniques that engage students and foster thinking skills,” JICA Section Chief Flerida Chan said in a statement.

The activity is a component of the JICA - Technical Cooperation for Grassroots Project (TCGP) that aims to implement development projects of Japanese non-profit groups, local governments, and universities using Japanese knowledge and experience.

A group of educators from the pilot schools and from the Department of Education Region VII and Central Office has visited Saitama this year to study the KCJ model and other best practices in teaching in Japan schools.

This project, according to JICA, is in support to the Philippines’ move to develop globally competitive students with Japan’s Saitama Board of Education sharing Japanese active learning concept and teaching techniques with the selected schools in Cebu City.

“We hope that promoting active learning will enable Filipino students to make better use of the knowledge they acquired from the school in the long- term and at the same time develop their critical thinking skills,” said Dr. Emiliano Elnar, chief education supervisor of the Department of Education Region 7.

Elnar noted that these knowledge and method are essential in encouraging students to become productive citizens who are able to contribute meaningfully to nation building.

A study made by Prof. Julia Christmas for Japan’s Miyazaki International College showed that the active learning model has a positive effect on the students’ engagement and achievement in school. Also, the method is seen to have lowered attrition rates among students.

JICA noted that historically, Japan’s own economic resurgence depended on education and human resource development among other factors.