III. 2013 Project plan for Research Institute for Independent Higher Education

The Research Institute for Independent Higher Education, an annex of the Association of Private Universities of Japan, shall conduct investigation and research regarding the concept of Japan's higher education system, which is centered on school corporations and the private universities established thereby. At the same time, the Institute shall promote the following major projects listed below to contribute to the Association’s drafting of policies and to the development of higher education in Japan.

I. Investigation and Research Projects
Carry out projects based on the following themes in the field of studies and research that can contribute to policies in private higher education, in partnership with the Association.
-International comparative research of higher education (research regarding international student policies centered on East Asia)
-Research regarding private university management reform(i. regional partnerships, particularly management models focused on COC functions; ii. forms of governance and a vision for management)
-Research into education and learning management in baccalaureate degree program education (management of the instruction/learning process: forming a curriculum, educational methods, and assessment)
-Research on quality-assurance systems  (vision for certification and assessment, and international trends in quality assurance)
-IR-related research

II. Presentation of Results and Enlightening Activities

	(1)	Conduct conferences for researchers -Evaluate issues regarding activities in the research institute and research plans -As a general rule the conferences shall be conducted every other month at private school assembly halls
	(2)	Conduct open study groups - As a general rule, the study groups shall be conducted every other month at private school assembly halls
	(3)	Research exchange activities -Present opportunities for domestic and international and higher education and research institutions to interact and exchange information
	(4)	Presentation, publication and public relations regarding research results -Edit, publish and distribute research series materials, research documents, and other publications -Present editorials and book reviews on the Academic Education Newspaper's Arcadia School Bulletin

III Miscellaneous activities

With regard to issues surrounding private universities (including current affairs and medium/long term issues), the Association shall work in liaison with the Board of Directors and various expert committees from Association of Private Universities of Japan, and conduct and respond to necessary activities and projects accordingly. * Issues related to university reform * Issues related to basic planning regarding the advancement of education * Issues related to the university entrance period (autumn entrance issues) * Other important issues