Values Education and Teaching Zest for Life: Japanese Experience and New Ukrainian School Reform

Abstract

This paper highlights the importance of sustainable values education for Ukrainian society to become united and economically strong. The authors signify the Japanese value-creating pedagogy as transformational and leverage in making Japan a strong nation and competitive economy. Therefore, the experience is of interest to Ukraine. The New Ukrainian School Reform transforms schooling into an inspirational environment and a place of joy. It differs from the traditional classroom of the assertive discipline and, accordingly, leads to changes in teacher education. The research concludes that the Japanese approaches to teaching values and zest for life are within reform algorithms that are an adequate response to the democratization and humanization of education in the globalized world. The paper finds more profound comparative research in pedagogy necessary to improve teacher preparation.