Nara University of Education is located in the center of the ancient capital of Nara. We are surrounded by a rich natural environment, and numerous examples of traditional cultural heritage, including World Heritage Sites. Students can refine their sensibilities while experiencing the thrill of studying in Nara through our ties with the Nara National Museum and the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties. In this positive environment, students energetically pursue academics, art, sports, and other fields through interactive classes emphasizing active learning and attentive instruction in laboratory seminars, while taking advantage of our size, with a student body of about 1,000 students. Through interaction with people, the environment, and World Heritage Sites, students can steadily master the qualities and abilities needed as a teacher, such as communication and presentation abilities based on a foundation of solid academic skills.
Our university, together with our attached schools, is certified as a UNESCO Associated School. We are conducting extensive research as a hub promoting Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). In the school education of the future, there will be a need to develop people capable of creating a sustainable society, in all types of schools and courses of study. We have prepared a curriculum that can address a variety of issues covered by ESD, including the environment, culture, peace, and human rights, and we are working hard to ensure that all students striving to be teachers can master knowledge and instructional methods relating to ESD. Through this sort of education, we are contributing to the community and society, as a university aiming to bring about Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Making Nara a Center for Learning We regard teacher development and training of teaching professionals currently working as two of our major responsibilities. In teacher development, the focus is university classes, including practical training, and independent experience activities such as school support. In teacher training, our teaching staff provide the latest ideas and advice to working teachers. To further integrate teacher development and teaching training, our students participate in the training of teaching professionals who are already working, and our teaching staff offer knowledge gleaned from involvement with community schools and children, in their university classes. These initiatives are highly regarded throughout Japan, and from the time a student attends our university until after they find employment as a teacher, we consistently cultivate their capabilities in terms of practical instruction and carrying out research.
