グローバルに民主主義を支えうる人材育成のための英語ディベートについて : アカウンタビリティ、クリティカル・シンキング、そして英語力

Both the Japanese business sector and government are emphasizing the importance for Japanese universities of nurturing students as so-called global human resources. However, it is not necessarily clear what abilities are required to be a global human resource. English ability seems to be the most relevant factor to become such a person.　　

Based on social expectations regarding university education in Japan, in this article, the effectiveness of English debating classes is argued. Firstly, it clarifies the fundamental purpose of developing the abilities of Japanese students who try to live up to the social expectations in Japan and should have the skills of accountability, critical thinking, and English. Assertions require convincing reasoning and evidence in communication that involves various people from different cultural backgrounds. Without a developed sense of accountability, mutual understanding and constructive arguments are difficult in this global society.　　

Although the business sector tends to focus on English ability as a global human resource, developing accountability and critical thinking will lead a student who takes English debating classes to develop the foundations of democracy on a global scale. This article, based on a logical argument, purports that English debating classes in Japan could play an important role in nurturing prospective students in this global society.