A Study on the Possibility of CLIL as an Approach of Liberal Arts Education in the Context of Kosen (National Institute of Technology)

Abstract

This paper analyzes the possibility of the Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) approach as a framework for liberal arts education in the context of Kosen (National Institute of Technology). One of Kosen’s educational goals is to develop individuals who can contribute to the realization of a more sustainable society through the creation of innovative technologies. In alignment with this educational goal, the author implemented a soft CLIL class for fourth grade Kosen students. In this class, students explored the connections between their typical food choices, social and environmental issues, and technology and engineering. Analysis of the research outcomes suggests the potential of CLIL as a framework for liberal arts education, even though it may not be fully aligned with Kosen’s educational goals.