PROGRAM DETAILS

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Learn the needs and characteristics of ESL students in Japan while exploring the country's culture. Explore about the unique cultural differences between how English is taught in Japan, and compare it with English language classrooms in the United States.

You will get a chance to observe all levels of English classrooms, from elementary to post-high school. Are you an upper-level TESOL student? Then consider taking the practicum option while you are on the program.

CLASSES

You will take the following classes while you are on the program: 

• (3 credits) TESOL Methods Course/Practicum: You will participate in a course focusing on national and international approaches to ESL teaching while observing various ESL classrooms and settings. Rather than merely studying about TESOL methods from a textbook though, you will have the opportunity to actually travel to and observe various English language classrooms both at JCMU and at local school! Upper-level TESOL students can choose to take a TESOL practicum course in lieu of the normal TESOL methods course.
  
  While taking this course, you will gain a deeper understanding of the characteristics and needs of ESL education in Japan, providing you with practical skills and knowledge for a career in TESOL. This experience will be especially useful if you are planning on teaching English in Japan on the JET program (or other similar teaching opportunities) in the future. 
   
• (3 credits) Japanese Culture & Society Course: This course will present you with the opportunity to further explore the foundations of Japanese culture and society and how they shape the lives of the Japanese people, which will help you fully understand the similarities and differences in teaching methods that you notice in your TESOL methods course. Classroom lectures will be enhanced with guest lectures, site visits, and Japanese cultural demonstrations and activities.

ALUMNI TESTIMONIALS AND MORE

Want to learn what past students have said about their time in Hikone? Or do you want to read about what our recent students have been up to? Then visit the Alumni Testimonials and Events sections of the JCMU Official Blog!