著者

脇田 博文

出版者

龍谷大学

雑誌

国際文化研究 (ISSN:13431404)

巻号頁・発行日

vol.17, pp.3-10, 2013-03-15

著者

脇田 博文

出版者

龍谷大学

雑誌

龍谷紀要 (ISSN:02890917)

巻号頁・発行日

vol.29, no.2, pp.115-131, 2008-01

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This paper investigates language education policies in the European Union (EU) through Slovenia. Slovenia has made steady progress towards democracy and a market economy since it became independent along with the disintegration of the former Yugoslavia in 1991, joined the EU in 2004, and instituted the euro in 2007. It is a small but typically multicultural and multilingual country, where language education policies play an important role in integrating and developing the nation. Along with the rapid progress of globalization, proficiency in foreign languages has not only become an indispensable tool of communication but represents tolerance towards those who are different and helps effect peaceful coexistence. With increased spatial and social mobility, Japan is also likely to become increasingly multicultural and multilingual and must deal with language education policies including the Japanese language. This paper is composed of the following issues: the general background of Slovenia, the educational system, the language education policy, teacher training, and assessment of language education. In conclusion, research results are discussed and ways to improve Japanese language education policies are suggested.