A comparison of the nutrition teacher system in Japan and South Korea: Actual duties of nutrition teachers in Gyeonggi Province based on observations and interview

Title : A comparison of the nutrition teacher system in Japan and South Korea: Actual duties of nutrition teachers in Gyeonggi Province based on observations and interview

Abstract:

The nutrition teacher system is only a national system in Japan and South Korea. While acknowledging the policy differences in school meal management between these two countries, this study examined how nutrition teachers perform their duties. In accordance with a notice from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), nutrition teachers in Japan emphasize guidance based on individual consultation during meals and interact with children and students. In contrast, nutrition teachers in Korea provide dietary guidance that emphasizes "autonomy." We hope the findings of this study will contribute to enhancing food education and developing systems in other countries.

Biography:

From April 2016 to present, Satoe Kon is a nutrition teacher at Setagaya Elementary School, attached to Tokyo Gakugei University. After graduating from Tokyo Kasei University with a major in registered dietitian in March 2011, she became a nutrition teacher in Miyagi Prefecture in April of the same year following the Great East Japan Earthquake. In March 2022, she obtained a Master’s degree in Social Design. Satoe Kon is involved in a corporate initiative to promote breakfast intake during the growing season with Nagatanien Co., Ltd.'s Meza Mashi Chazuke and is the supervisor of the book Delicious Recipes Born from Stories (Poplar Publishing).