“Suspending Classes Without Stopping Learning”: An Initiative to Ensure Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Japan

Abstract

Purpose During Japan's initial COVID-19 prevention and control period, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan (MEXT) issued several notifications to ensure students’ continuous learning according to the “Leave No One Behind” philosophy. The study focuses on the comprehensive measures of the top-level arrangements to implement the “Suspending Classes Without Stopping Learning” initiative. Design/Approach/Methods The study reviewed MEXT's guide on ensuring learning for Japanese primary and secondary school students during the pandemic. Findings The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the progress of the information and communications technology educational environment and the implementation of the “Global and Innovation Gateway for All (GIGA) Schools” initiative. These developments laid the foundation for the evolution of diverse pedagogical models and feasible methods for promoting equity. The home-schooling experience during the pandemic provided a natural base for students to practice and foster survivability. Originality/Value This study provides scholars with a shared understanding of the opportunities and challenges encountered in educational innovation in Japan. It provides insights into the future direction of pedagogical development, capability development, and effective educational arrangements for extraordinary circumstances to facilitate educational development from a broader perspective, particularly under the new normal.