The Internationalization of Higher Education in Japan: Shifting Interpretations and Notions of Kokusaika

Abstract

This thesis investigates the prevailing notions pertaining to the internationalization (kokusaika) of higher education in Japan, the ways in which it is practiced, and the reactions that have come about as a result to its implementation. Through examining varying government initiatives that have been put forth in since the early 1980s, institutional policies and practices, and student reactions, this thesis explores divergences among definitions and notions of kokusaika in higher education. In so doing, I aim to illuminate the inadequacies of past and current kokusaika endeavors and suggest potentials it may offer for the future. At any given time, the prevailing kokusaika discourse reflects the dominant perceptions and ideals of a society. It also presents frictions that are brought forth as a consequence to contesting views. Through uncovering trends relative to globalization and internationalization, my purpose is to illustrate these realities. Moreover, while the ideology definitely has the power to influence the thoughts and acts of a peoples, this thesis demonstrates that it is also one that is susceptible to being molded by people and their agendas. Thus, the objective of this thesis is to examine various significations and practices of kokusaika that have emerged over time, the possible factors that may have led to their appearance, the tensions they arise due to such contesting ideals, and finally, what such developments may indicate about the character of internationalization within Japan’s institutions of higher education.