FC Online: Revolutionizing Online Education with the Hanamaru Method

In a groundbreaking achievement, FC Online, the innovative online education platform developed by Hanamaru Group, has successfully surpassed 1200 students since its launch in February 2021. This remarkable growth showcases the effectiveness of their approach, which combines the established Hanamaru educational methodology with advanced Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions, all while maintaining equivalent success rates to that of traditional face-to-face classes.

Background of Fully Online Learning

Founded in 1993, Hanamaru Group has long been recognized for its unique educational offerings that emphasize 'thinking skills', 'Japanese language abilities', and 'outdoor experiences' through its various programs such as Hanamaru Learning School and School FC. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges, making in-person classes increasingly difficult. In response, the group launched FC Online in February 2021 to provide fully online middle and high school entrance exam preparation, allowing families to adapt to new education needs while preserving valuable family time.

FC Online has attracted a diverse range of students, reaching from Hokkaido to Okinawa and even to overseas returnees preparing for exams. The format is particularly favorable for students who thrive in a digital learning environment, enabling them to utilize ICT tools to enhance their academic performance effectively.

What is FC Online?

FC Online serves as a comprehensive online tutorial service for middle and high school entrance exams. It combines Hanamaru Group's proprietary teaching methods with crucial ICT tools, including video conferencing software Zoom, real-time note applications like MetaMoji Classroom, the learning support app Manabie, and parent communication management tool Comiru. This integrated framework facilitates a dynamic learning ecosystem where students, instructors, and parents can interact seamlessly.

Key Features

1. Adapting to Children's Learning Rhythms: One of the standout aspects of FC Online is how it maintains engagement during online classes by adhering to the natural rhythm of children's thought processes. Unlike traditional classes, which often become monotonous with prolonged lectures, FC Online employs interactive and varied teaching methods, which keep children focused even through a screen. This system effectively utilizes educational psychology principles, recognizing that children feel comfortable with a pace that aligns with their cognitive engagement patterns.

2. Personalized Attention: The dual use of Zoom and MetaMoji Classroom allows instructors to monitor students’ appearances and written work simultaneously, pinpointing those who may struggle and adjusting their teaching strategies in real-time. This technology enhances the interactive experience, fostering collaborative learning and promoting deeper understanding as students engage with each other's insights and ideas.

3. Transparency for Parents: Unlike traditional tutoring scenarios where the learning process can be opaque to parents, FC Online allows real-time observation of classes. This feature has garnered significant praise from families, as it facilitates a transparent understanding of how children are being taught and how they engage with the material. The system not only assures peace of mind but also acts as a filter for educational quality, as classes that can be shown to parents are subject to higher standards.

Outcomes and Future Prospects

The educational effectiveness of FC Online is evident from the satisfaction of its participants and the high entrance exam success rate, reminiscent of face-to-face experiences. With the launch of their 2025 course offerings, FC Online continues to expand its reach, servicing families who prioritize both educational excellence and the ability to engage in learning from the comfort of their homes, regardless of geographical constraints.

As the program moves forward, its leadership remains committed to refining the blend of traditional educational values and modern technological advancements, aiming to provide unparalleled academic support. In the words of Nobuhiro Matsushima, the program's director, they aspire to create not just a platform for learning but a nurturing environment that recognizes the essential role parents play in children’s educational journeys.

Conclusion

With its unique approach to online education, FC Online is not only breaking down barriers created by the pandemic but is also redefining the standards of learning environments in Japan. By placing focus on child-centered methods and maintaining strong connections with families, the FC Online initiative stands as a promising model for future educational practices, promoting a harmonious balance between academic rigor and emotional well-being.