ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the Japanese understanding of giftedness, and considers leading policy on gifted education. It sets out the characteristics and present state of Japanese-style gifted science education, and discusses future development and challenges. In Japan, a nation recognised for its scientific and technological creativity, "fostering innovative talent" has recently become an important catchphrase. The English concept of "giftedness" roughly corresponds to the Japanese words Tensai, Sainou, and Eisai. According to the Kojien Japanese Dictionary, Tensai means natural talent, or a superior ability that has been present since birth. According to Japan's Basic Education Act, one of the objectives of education is "to develop the abilities of individuals while respecting their value; cultivate their creativity; and foster an attitude to value labour while emphasizing the connections with career and practical life". In Japan, research on teachers engaged in science education for the gifted is extremely limited, as is policy related to the training and professional development of these teachers.
