What is a HypothesisExperiment Method Class?
After researching the conditions for formulating scientific awareness, Itakura concluded that the basis of scientific awareness is rooted in hypothesis and experiment. He assiduously applied his ideas and developed a method of science education, the HypothesisExperiment Method Class. Itakura decided against calling it the "HypothesisExperiment Method of Learning", opting instead for the present name. This is because he felt that science education should be cultivated in the classroom in a group spirit and not focus on the learning of the individual. Itakura bases this approach on his theory of scientific awareness, "Scientific awareness is societal awareness."
Modern education in Japan began with the importation of educational theory from America. Before this, Japanese elementary education centered on giving each student his own task to solve under the guidance of the teacher. (from Terakoya during the Edo period, )
In 1872, the system changed to a form where students learn the same material at the same time under the guidance of their teacher. In this system, in addition to listening to the teacher's explanations, students also participate by answering the teacher's questions. Students who haven't been called on participate as a matter of course by listening to their peers. This method, where each student's learning is distinguished from the others, has become the accepted way to carry out class in Japan. In this sense, the HypothesisExperiment Method Class is a form of unified class.
The Objectives of the HypothesisExperiment Method Class
Objective 1 All students are able to thoroughly grasp targeted concepts and principles. Careless mistakes not withstanding, students score an average of 90 points on the end of term examination.
Objective 2 Students come to enjoy the incorporation of this class in science learning. The majority of students state in their end of termclass evaluation that they enjoyed or really enjoyed the class. Students who state that they disliked the class be exceptions, and number no more than two or three.
Objective 3 Lay groundwork such that even if the teacher is not a seasoned professional, as long as he is enthusiastic he can realize the objectives of the HypothesisExperiment Method class. Lay groundwork such that the teacher is able to take pleasure in realizing the objectives of said class without excessive demand on scholastic ability and without overburden.
Class Text（Jugyosho授業書）
The HypothesisExperiment Method class is developed using the "Lesson Assignment" text. In order for students to gain awareness of fundamental concepts in science, the ideal class would be such that regardless of qualities which vary from class to class and teacher to teacher, a universal rule applies. the Lesson Assignment is basically a mechanical prescription based on this universal rule and dictates how to effectively develop a lesson. It has become clear that in a large number of classes which have used the Lesson Assignment, similar lessons have resulted regardless of the fact that the teachers and students differ. Consequently, the teacher's burden becomes lighter and much more productive lessons than were previously possible result.
