【Project Activities】

Provided support for accepting Japanese graduate students for overseas internships, including coordination with desired host institutions, securing accommodation, adjustments for entry such as visas, ongoing care during their stay, and offering opportunities tailored to the students’ interests.

【Project Background】

Coordinated this project upon request from the Graduate School of Sport International Development at the University of Tsukuba. Initially planned as an internship with a sports federation, it was adjusted to the Ministry of Education due to the student’s research focus on physical education, ensuring a smooth internship experience.

【Project Objective】

For Palau: Enhancement of physical education, positive influence on PE teachers, and international exchange for children. For Japanese students: International experience and practical application of research methods.

【Project Area】

Physical Education (PE) Teacher Education

【Methods】

Internship Support

【Outcomes】

Perhaps because the University of Tsukuba’s Sport International Development program is English-based, Japanese students did not face language barriers common among Japanese, performed on par with interns from other countries like the US, becoming immediate assets in the field. This facilitated deeper exchanges and allowed them to thoroughly read materials (like curriculum guidelines and standards), which they could apply to their research. The project resulted in positive exchanges and experiences for the Palau Ministry of Education, the students at the host schools, and the interns themselves.

【Voices from Participants and Partners】

“I don’t want to go home” (Japanese student). “I was able to learn about the realities of international development on the ground” (Japanese student). “It was a great help” (Host elementary school). “I learned a lot by working together” (Colleague teacher).

【Challenges and Lessons Learned】

Compared to organizations like JICA, students bear a significant burden for travel and living expenses. Due to the short duration, it is difficult to expect outcomes beyond “exchange.”

【URL】