fbpx

Interview

Alumni

Ms.Yamamoto

Ms.Yamamoto

Studying at an overseas graduate school

Ms.Yamamoto

“Studying at a U.S. Graduate School to Bridge Schools and Research”

Ms.Yamamoto

Current Efforts

currently studying at the Teachers College, Columbia University in the United States. My research focuses on how public education can facilitate children's self-understanding and understanding of others. For example, I am exploring how elements of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) can be integrated into Japanese education. Additionally, I host monthly study sessions with other Japanese graduate students at Columbia, including those studying in the business school, law school, and public policy programs, to discuss the future of Japanese education.

Ms.Yamamoto

Reason for My Current Role

While I found teaching to be a rewarding job, I had almost forgotten my dream of pursuing graduate studies until the COVID-19 pandemic struck. With schools closed and teachers' roles diminished, I had ample time to reflect on the purpose of education. I came to believe that schools are places where students learn to appreciate diverse perspectives and feelings, much like how different individuals interpret the same text in varied ways. By understanding these differences, students can better collaborate and face challenges in a global context. I decided to pursue graduate studies, focusing on developmental psychology, to learn how children's thoughts and feelings are formed, with the hope of making a greater impact on society throughout my life.

Ms.Yamamoto

Future Vision

While I hope to return to the school environment, I also want to make the most of my graduate studies experience by bridging the gap between schools and research. I aim to connect educational practices with academic research and provide insights and proposals to education policymakers.