An Approach to the Studies on Community Policies

—from the viewpoint of educational science—

Abstract

This study seeks to clarify today's problems existing in the education of children. Toward this end, I will look into the educational policies, its practices, and the other relevant issues that concerns the educational capacity of community in general.
Firstly, I overview the current situation facing children, in particular, their criminal and other juvenile delinquency tendencies. I will also touch on the issues of children hooked on the virtual world, which affect their ability to associate with their beloved friends and neighbors.
Secondly, I describe the trend seen in the policies for rebuilding the educational capacity of community. The common characteristics are found in their trying to establish the school system of “Yutori and Jujitu” -enjoyable and substantial education-, in order to cultivate children's “Ikiru Chikara and Kokoro” -living ability and mind. The policy tries to achieve these aims by introducing the five days school system, the school subject called “comprehensive study” and the voluntary activities which needs the smooth cooperation of school, family and community. I also analyze the fact that the educational policies expect the human formational and educational possibilities of community.
Thirdly, this paper describes some educational practices in several communities across Japan, in which many children have been growing in community centers, civic halls, and unoccupied classrooms in primary schools.
Finally, I propose some ideas concerning the way to recognize the potential capacity of community in educational field. I argue the significance Of understanding the meaning of community life fOr children, and how to organize the association of children in community,etc.