Shinya Sanzen

Shinya Sanzen, a dedicated English teacher with 17 years of experience, has reshaped English education in Japan by fostering critical thinking and global citizenship through debate-centred teaching. With a vision to transform Japan’s traditional, one-way teaching style into an interactive and empowering learning environment, Shinya has not only inspired his students but also catalysed systemic change in education across the country. 

His journey as a teacher began with a profound belief in the power of education to alter futures, particularly in addressing the inequality that often affects students. Recognising the need for students to develop logical thinking and impromptu communication skills, he introduced English debate as a cornerstone of his curriculum. This innovative approach blends academic-style debate, which hones logical reasoning, with parliamentary-style debate, emphasising spontaneous articulation. This method has proven highly effective in encouraging students to express their opinions confidently, even in Japan’s traditionally reserved society. 

Teaching in a rural area presented unique challenges, as many students hesitated to voice their ideas due to cultural norms that discourage standing out. Shinya tackled these obstacles by creating opportunities for students to engage in meaningful interactions, such as online debate matches with urban schools and international exchanges via Skype and Zoom. These initiatives not only bridged geographical and socioeconomic divides but also exposed students to diverse perspectives, fostering a global mindset. 

Shinya’s impact extends beyond his classroom. He collaborated with Japan’s Ministry of Education to produce a widely-viewed YouTube channel teaching English debate, authored a range of publications, and developed teaching materials that have been adopted nationwide. His leadership in organising debate seminars through the All-Japan High School English Debate Association (HEnDA) has reached over 10,000 students and teachers, significantly increasing the popularity of English debate in Japan. 

The measurable outcomes of Shinya’s efforts are remarkable. Students in his classes have achieved unprecedented improvements in English proficiency and logical thinking, as evidenced by their exceptional performance in national exams and communication tests. His students have also demonstrated their skills on international platforms, collaborating with peers in countries like Singapore, Taiwan, and the United States on scientific research and cultural exchanges. 

Shinya’s dedication to creating global citizens is evident in his emphasis on direct experiences. Through debate and international collaborations, students gain a broader understanding of their own culture and the world, learning to communicate and think critically about global issues. His focus on integrating climate change topics into debates further instils a sense of responsibility toward sustainability among his students. 

Shinya’s influence on the teaching profession is equally profound. By sharing best practices through presentations, publications, and DVDs, he has encouraged fellow educators to adopt innovative approaches and prioritise lifelong learning. His award-winning work, including the prestigious Iwasaki Prize, has established him as a leader in English education in Japan. 

Shinya Sanzen’s unwavering commitment to empowering students through debate, innovation, and global engagement has not only transformed his classrooms but also set a new standard for English education in Japan.