Scrambling to Digitalize—COVID-19 Pandemic as a “Disclosing Tablet” for Japan’s Education Woes and the Way Forward

Abstract

While in the past online education was an educational option, during the COVID-19 pandemic it has become an essential tool for colleges and universities to maintain their academic activity. Like a disclosing tablet that makes plaque visible, indicating the areas where more brushing is needed, the COVID-19 crisis has highlighted some critical issues in education that require further attention. This paper discusses the challenges that universities, teachers and students in Japan faced after the breakout of the COVID-19 pandemic and the lessons learned from them. Following the literature review and the author’s experience teaching foreign language classes at Japanese universities, the study identifies four main areas of concern: (1) a lack of digital devices and stable internet connections, (2) low levels of digital literacy among teachers and students alike, (3) insufficient institutional support, and (4) a lack of familiarity with online teaching formats and course delivery. The paper continues to examine the conditions needed for further integration of technology in education. Attention is given to teacher development, student training, and the selection and use of digital technologies in blended and fully online synchronous and asynchronous classes. While statistics and examples come from the Japanese context, many of the problems described are not unique to Japan. It is hoped that shared experiences and perspectives will help teachers and institutions in other countries identify common problems and develop the adequate strategies to confront them.