Japan’s Education System: A Generational Divide

Survey Results Reveal Differences in Perception Among Generations

According to a recent survey, the biggest challenge facing Japan’s modern education system is perceived differently among various generations. Gen Z, who have received education until recently, believe that the biggest issue is an “outdated curriculum,” while other generations think it is “insufficient teacher training.”

Notably, there is a significant difference in perception between the Baby Boomer generation and Gen Z. While 45% of Baby Boomers chose “insufficient teacher training,” Gen Z came in second with 27%, a difference of nearly 20 points.

Gen Z’s Positive Evaluation of Japan’s Education System

Interestingly, Gen Z, who have received education until recently, have the most positive evaluation of Japan’s education system. In response to the question, “How do you rate the overall quality of the education system in your country?”, 19% of Japanese people answered “good,” ranking 24th out of 30 countries in the global comparison.

When compared to the generation with the lowest evaluation in areas such as preparation for future careers and contribution to alleviating social inequality, the results showed a difference of around 10% in both cases.

Expert Insights

Shunichi Uchida, President and CEO of Ipsos Inc., commented on the survey results, “This survey shows that the generation that received education only recently and the generation above them have different awareness of education issues. Generations above millennials show dissatisfaction with teachers, but Gen Z would rather see the curriculum change to fit the times. Gen Z is also more positive about the modern education system than other generations.”

Survey Methodology

The survey was conducted online via the Ipsos Global Advisor platform and IndiaBus platform, with 23,754 participants from 30 countries, including 2,000 Japanese. The survey was conducted from June 21, 2024, to July 5, 2024.