摘要：As is the norm in many countries, Japan practices a top-down versus a bottom-up approach to decision- and policy-making. Though ideas, words and phrases like "independent thinking," "self-direction" and "autonomous decision-making" are not unheard of, in the domain of education Japan's MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) is the preeminent power. MEXT exerts a strong influence at all levels, and in all aspects, of education— including international education. Thus, MEXT is a logical starting point for those interested in Japan's educational system
