The Reformation of Science Education in Occupied Japan (I) : The CIE Educational Films "Chemistry of Fire" and "Beware of Fire"

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of CIE educational films and their influence on science education reform in occupied Japan. Through the study of documentary records and interviews with the persons involved, the following results were reached: 1. The CIE educational films were produced by the U. S. A., England, Japan, etc. The CIE educational film "Beware of Fire" was made from part of the CIE educational film "Chemistry of Fire." The former, a film with educational merit, compared favorably with the latter. 2 . The CIE educational films "Beware of Fire" and "Chemistry of Fire" not only helped to make up for the lack of textbooks at elementary and lower secondary schools, but also met the social needs of fire prevention. 3. The use of the CIE educational films promoted the development of high quality educational materials. 4. Discussions following the CIE educational films with the study-discussion guide were promoted by the CIE, the Local Military Government Sections, and the Ministry of Education. 5. Showing the CIE educational films was an opportunity to establish prefectural audiovisual libraries and promoted audio-visual education in science.