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Discovering New Horizons in Education: The 'Pathways and Learning Forum'

On March 21, 2026, the International Education Lab (IEL) will hold its inaugural event, the 'Pathways and Learning Forum' in Tokyo. This free event invites everyone interested in the evolving landscape of Japanese education to participate. The forum addresses the significant changes currently facing the education system, shifting focus from academic scores to nurturing skills like inquiry, critical thinking, and international awareness.

Background and Purpose

Japanese education finds itself at a crossroads. While there is a growing interest in educational methods that foster inquiry and global perspectives, parents struggle to navigate the myriad choices available for their children’s education. Particularly concerning international education, many parents hold the perception that it must commence early in childhood or that English proficiency is a critical barrier, leading to fears about their children’s readiness as they approach secondary schooling.

The 'Pathways and Learning Forum' aims to demystify these concerns and reconceptualize international education as one of several viable options in the Japanese education landscape. The forum features student-led poster presentations and seminars by educational experts, allowing for the visualization of the often overlooked 'learning processes' that go beyond mere grades and test scores.

Highlights of the Forum

1. A Focus on Real Experiences, Not Marketing

The forum will showcase numerous poster sessions featuring students from international schools and those emphasizing international education in Japan. This segment will allow students to share their learning outcomes and processes, providing attendees with a clear picture of what their futures might look like at various schools.

2. Practical and Valuable Seminars

Educators and key figures in the field, including IEL researchers like Yoshitaka Inoue, will lead valuable discussions alongside experienced professionals from major trading companies and consulting firms. This diverse lineup will delve into various perspectives on Japan's international education environment.

3. Unique Hands-on Experiences

Participants can gain insight through workshops that allow them to experience selection exams from Tokyo Seishin Gakuen and explore problem-based learning (PBL) techniques to study English. These interactive sessions will be a rare opportunity for families to engage directly with innovative educational practices.

Detailed Program

1. Inquiry-Based Learning Poster Project

Students from participating schools will present their inquiry-based learning projects in poster format, offering attendees a chance to interact with them and discover each school's distinctive educational philosophy.

• - Schools involved include:

- Meikei Gakuen Junior and Senior High School
- Reitaku Junior and Senior High School
- Shibaura Institute of Technology Kashiwa Junior High School
- Various others.

2. Educational Seminars

Professionals will present their insights on international education and inquiry learning, fostering an environment for in-depth understanding through an interactive Q&A format.

• - Notable speakers:

- Principal Elmer Reyes from Capital Tokyo International School
- Others from various educational backgrounds discussing critical aspects of global education.

3. Individual Consultation Booths

Attendees will have the chance to interact one-on-one with representatives from participating schools at designated consultation booths, addressing specific questions regarding admissions and educational philosophies.

4. Hands-on Workshops

Workshops will allow attendees to engage in hands-on experiences such as selecting autonomous learners at Tokyo Seishin Gakuen's workshop sessions, and innovative PBL learning methods through the CTIS English Academy.

Event Information

• - Organizer: International Education Lab (IEL)
• - Supporters: Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd.
• - Date & Time: March 21, 2026, from 10 AM to 4 PM
• - Location: Conference Square M+ in Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - Entry Fee: Free
• - Target Audience: Parents of elementary and junior high school students interested in international education, educational professionals, and anyone passionate about contemporary learning methodologies.
• - Participation Method: Pre-registration is required, but entry is available on the day if capacity allows.

About the International Education Lab

The IEL operates as a non-profit educational think tank in Japan focused on international education and forward-thinking educational methodologies. It serves as a neutral platform for schools, educators, parents, and students to explore various pathways and approaches to learning, fostering dialogues and sharing knowledge on critical educational issues without promoting specific schools or educational models.