TESOLプログラム
TESOL Program: Intercultural Communication in the Japanese English Language Education Context
Program Introduction
The TESOL Program in the Graduate School of Intercultural Communication leads to a Masterʼs degree in Intercultural Communication. It blends the study of TESOL with a concentration on the Japanese English language education context. All coursework is conducted in English.
Program Uniqueness
The purpose of the TESOL Program is twofold. First, it covers core topics related to English language education in order to shed light on how best to support students’ language learning efforts. Second, it addresses the cultural issues to foster an intercultural understanding that will lead to a symbiotic classroom environment and personal intercultural development. Graduates of this program will be able to play an integral role in the improvement of Japanese English language education.
Student Voices
| PROFILE Ashley Beaudreau Enroll in April 2023 |
Why the Ibunka TESOL program?
I was teaching as an English teacher in Japan when I chose to apply to further my capabilities as an instructor and researcher. I spoke with Dr. Martin about the TESOL Program and was really impressed with not only the courses available, but the excellent community he described. The faculty and students are all so supportive of each other. It makes grad school an exciting place to be!
How has the experience been?
I’ve been loving my time here in the Graduate School of Intercultural Communication, and I am even a bit sad to take the summer off - I’d rather be in class with my peers and professors! The professors are incredible teachers and mentors, taking personal interest in the research and futures of their students. The students are all motivated, humble people from all walks of life. I feel fortunate to brush shoulders with so many current and future greats.
What are your plans for your future?
I plan to become a professor and researcher in TESOL, specifically looking at the impact and use of technology, such as video games and AI. I hope to teach and learn at the university-level with the support of my advisors and professors.
| PROFILE Yoshiki Sugiyama Enroll in April 2023 |
Why the Ibunka TESOL program?
I chose the TESOL Program because I am particularly interested in the English education context in Japan. Because the Program focuses mainly on the Japanese educational context, I am able to learn and understand how cultural factors unique to Japan affect Japanese English language learners and can identify teaching methods and supports that are appropriate for them. Another attractive feature of the program is that all classes are conducted in English. While gaining expertise in English education, I can also improve my English level.
How has the experience been?
Since most of the classes are discussion-based, I can exchange ideas with my peers and have been able to gain knowledge communicatively beyond the knowledge from textbooks. I am able to obtain knowledge from perspectives I had never thought of before by listening to my peers' ideas through their areas of expertise, experiences, and cultures.
What are your plans for your future?
I am planning to become an English teacher at a junior high or high school in Japan based on the knowledge I have learnt and researched in the TESOL Program. I want to be a teacher who can provide teaching methods and support that will help students foster and maintain their motivation to learn. Therefore, I am currently majoring in the TESOL Program while taking the Teacher Training Course at Rikkyo University.
