Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology is considering a major strengthening of children's information literacy in the next national curriculum guidelines. At a press conference on September 1, 2026, the Minister of Education emphasized the need to strengthen media literacy and information ethics, reflecting major changes in the information environment surrounding children, including the spread of misinformation and disinformation through social media.

    Related discussions by the Central Council for Education also address internet risks, information security, the effects of prolonged digital use, and age-appropriate understanding of the basic mechanisms and characteristics of generative AI.

Comment from GAME-F

Information education can no longer be limited to teaching children how to use digital devices. As social media and generative AI become part of everyday life, children need to learn to ask whether information is reliable, whether technology is being used appropriately, and how digital use may be affecting their daily lives. Digital skills and responsible digital use should therefore not be treated separately. GAME-F believes that information education should help children develop not only technical skills, but also the ability to reflect on the functional impact of digital technology on sleep, learning, family life, and other everyday activities.

References

Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). Press Conference by Minister Yohei Matsumoto, September 1, 2026.
MEXT — Minister's Press Conference, September 1, 2026

Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). Discussion Materials on Information Literacy for the Next National Curriculum.
MEXT — Materials on Information Literacy