Development of Educational Programs by the National Archives of Japan and Challenges to be Addressed

Case Studies of the National Archives in the U. K. and the U. S. A.

Abstract

This research examines the problems and future orientation of the project by the National Archives of Japan (NAJ), “Introduction of the functions for providing students with opportunities for learning about Japanese history through archives”. First, Educational programs was defined, following the models of preceding studies and overseas examples. Docs Teach of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) of the U. S. A. and the Education Sessions and Resources of the National Archives (TNA) of the U. K. were examined online with regard to the following issues: (1) Information constituting educational programs, (2) Trends in an educational program themes (according to the targeted learner, historical period and topic), and (3) Collaboration with people in the field of education for the creation of educational programs. Next, based on the results of examination and the condition of NAJ, problems in introducing “the function of examining educational programs” into NAJ and measures to deal with the problems were examined. As a result, the following was confirmed: (1) It is possible for NAJ to select appropriate themes for educational programs, judging from its accomplishments, (2) In order to select information for educational programs, expertise from outside of NAJ’s field of study and system are required, and (3) In collaboration with schools and other organizations, it is necessary to deepen relationships with organizations related to schools and education, as well as other archives and archive-related organizations.