October 31, 2025 to November 2, 2025
National Olympics Memorial Youth Center / 国立オリンピック記念青少年総合センター
Asia/Tokyo timezone

Is CEFR on the Rise?: Analysis of University English Syllabi

Nov 2, 2025, 12:00 PM
30m
National Olympics Memorial Youth Center / 国立オリンピック記念青少年総合センター

National Olympics Memorial Youth Center / 国立オリンピック記念青少年総合センター

3-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0052 / 〒151-0052 東京都渋谷区代々木神園町3-1
Research-oriented Presentation (30-minutes) Teacher and Professional Development Room 507

Speaker

Koki Tomita (Soka University)

Description

This study examines how the CEFR is referenced and applied in English syllabi across 369 Japanese universities to gauge tertiary-level adoption. The analysis shows limited uptake and uneven usage, revealing a persistent gap between secondary and university practices. Findings indicate implementation remains in an early diffusion stage. Coordinated policy measures and institutional initiatives are recommended to drive broader, consistent integration in curriculum design, assessment practices, learning outcomes, and teacher development across programs and campuses nationwide.

Summary

To understand the adaptation level of the CEFR, this study analyzes the extent and manner of CEFR inclusion in English syllabi from 369 Japanese universities. The results reveal only 25% reference the CEFR. In the syllabi, CEFR implementation is fragmented, highlighting a disconnect between secondary and tertiary education. Findings suggest that CEFR adoption in higher education is in its early stages, necessitating enhanced policy initiatives for broader integration.​

Teaching Context College and university education

Author

Koki Tomita (Soka University)

Presentation materials

There are no materials yet.