ABSTRACT
This chapter explores merit within the context of the diversification of university entrance procedures in Japan through the analysis of one of its constituent elements, appropriate measurement of individual abilities. It also examines whether students’ high school ranking is a predicting factor of appropriate measurement perception. The study uses data gathered during fall and winter 2014 in 13 private high schools in Tokyo, and uses a QUAN-qual approach to investigate the issue. Statistical significance was found for four out of the six entrance procedures examined. Students’ perceptions were justified by elements found in the focus of the various entrance procedures, their egalitarian nature and effort requirement. This chapter concludes with a discussion on the J-mode meritocracy (Kariya 2000) and its influence on the perception of merit today.
