School Non-Attendance Hits Record High: A Time for Parents and Teachers to Adopt a 'Third Way' of Engagement
The Tankyu Acceleration Organization (TAO) has been established to launch the 'Inquiry Navigator Certification Course' starting June 15, aimed at fostering essential 'learning companions' during this transformative era in education.
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- 📰 Published: May 20, 2026 at 16:45
- 🔍 Collected: May 20, 2026 at 08:01
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## A Shortage of Support During a Transformative Era in Learning
According to the latest survey by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, the number of non-attending elementary and junior high school students reached 353,970, marking a record high for the 12th consecutive year. As the rapid spread of AI causes the premise of 'what and how we learn' to shift, parents and teachers are increasingly struggling with how to engage with children. In response, experts in inquiry-based learning founded the Tankyu Acceleration Organization (TAO) in April 2026.
## Inquiry Navigator Certification Course (Starting June 15)
Education often carries a strong connotation of 'teaching,' but the core value should be 'learning.' The Inquiry Navigator Certification Course consists of four stages, from introductory to trainer levels. The introductory course is a 10-session on-demand program. Participants learn systematic skills to foster students' autonomy and accompany them as they find their own paths. A digital certificate will be issued to those who complete the course.
## Bringing 'Inquiry Navigators' to Every Corner of Society
Our mission is to foster inquiry navigators who support the shift from knowledge-based education to education that values curiosity and cultivates the power of independent inquiry. Led by experts such as Kunihiko Yahagi and Toshiki Sumitani, TAO provides a consistent knowledge framework. For more details, please visit our official website.
According to the latest survey by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, the number of non-attending elementary and junior high school students reached 353,970, marking a record high for the 12th consecutive year. As the rapid spread of AI causes the premise of 'what and how we learn' to shift, parents and teachers are increasingly struggling with how to engage with children. In response, experts in inquiry-based learning founded the Tankyu Acceleration Organization (TAO) in April 2026.
## Inquiry Navigator Certification Course (Starting June 15)
Education often carries a strong connotation of 'teaching,' but the core value should be 'learning.' The Inquiry Navigator Certification Course consists of four stages, from introductory to trainer levels. The introductory course is a 10-session on-demand program. Participants learn systematic skills to foster students' autonomy and accompany them as they find their own paths. A digital certificate will be issued to those who complete the course.
## Bringing 'Inquiry Navigators' to Every Corner of Society
Our mission is to foster inquiry navigators who support the shift from knowledge-based education to education that values curiosity and cultivates the power of independent inquiry. Led by experts such as Kunihiko Yahagi and Toshiki Sumitani, TAO provides a consistent knowledge framework. For more details, please visit our official website.
FAQ
What is a 'Tankyu Navigator'?
A person equipped with skills to support and accompany students in their inquiry-based learning journeys.
What is the format of the course?
The introductory course is via on-demand video, while the basic course is an online interactive workshop.
How much does it cost?
The introductory course is 14,800 JPY (9,800 JPY preorder), and the basic course is 39,800 JPY.