The Development and Characteristics of Secondary Art Teacher Training in Early 20th Century Japan

—Focusing on Tokyo Higher Normal School and Tokyo Fine Arts School—

Abstract

This study aims to elucidate the development and characteristics of secondary art teacher training in early 20th century Japan, focusing on Tokyo Higher Normal School and Tokyo Fine Arts School. Through a detailed examination and comparative analysis of curricula, faculty composition, and educational content, five key features were identified: emphasis on specialization, focus on practical education, implementation of comprehensive education, fusion of Western and Japanese art education, and differentiation according to educational objectives. Tokyo Higher Normal School emphasized a balance between art and handicraft, aiming for more practical education, while Tokyo Fine Arts School focused on specialized art education. These characteristics reflect the educational policies and social demands of the time, representing the search for a unique Japanese approach to art education amid rapid modernization and the introduction of Western culture during the Meiji period. This research provides important insights for considering contemporary art education and teacher training methods.