Faculty of Human Development

The Faculty of Human Development was established upon a foundation of research and education in traditional Japanese culture to integrate existing academic specialties dealing with human growth and personality development into a practice-oriented discipline. Toward this goal, the Faculty will pioneer interdisciplinary study in human development, thus aiming at producing individuals capable of responding to contemporary social issues.

Department of Elementary Education

This department aims to foster human development-type educators who will be involved primaily in elementary education and are able to bring out the potential qualities and capabilities of children. Through various lectures, exercises and practical studies including four development subjects—“language/classics,” “natural science,” “English for children, and “child care”—students can acquire various core competencies and learn the significance of fostering human capability by integrating these competencies in an experiential manner.

Department of Health and Physical Education

This department aims to foster human development-type instructors who will mainly be involved in the promotion of health and sports at life’s various stages. Through lectures, exercises and practical studies including four development subjects—“regional education/lifelong sports,” “health and safety education,” “tradition and physical culture,” and “instruction and development of exercise”—students will acquire various core competencies and learn the significance of fostering human capability by integrating these competencies in an experiential manner.

The Center for Educational Research and Teacher Development / Kokugakuin Community Health Promotion Center
One of the principles of the Faculty of Human Development is the concept of “mutual growth” (kyo-iku) education. Toward realizing that principle, two new Centers have been established within the Faculty, based upon a foundation of cooperation with relevant organizations inside and outside the university. The Center for Educational Research and Practice is devoted to research and instruction related to the practical and clinical activity of education, while the Kokugakuin Community Health Promotion Center is designed to engage in research and instruction relating to health and sports education, and to the practice of physical education. The objectives of these Centers is to foster the qualitative improvement of educators, and contribute to the development of education and practical health and sports activities in local societies.