scholarly journals Deconstructing the Bully and Victim Dichotomy

2010 ◽  
Vol IV (2) ◽  
pp. 22-43
Author(s):  
Eucharia Donnery
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Personal Development ◽  
English Education ◽  
Communicative Competence ◽  
University Student ◽  
Target Language ◽  
Process Drama ◽  
Communicative Skills ◽  
Japanese University ◽  
Test Taking

Although steps have been taken to address the issue of ijime or bullying, it remains is a serious social problem within the Japanese educational system. The main focus of this pilot study was to ascertain how beneficial process drama could be in developing oral communicative skills in the target language of English as well as to build social awareness through the deconstruction of the bully and victim dichotomy. Process drama in language acquisition is unique in its aim to fuse language learning and personal development. The average Japanese university student has had six years of compulsory English education, with an emphasis on grammar-translation and accuracy. This means that, while the average student excels at translation and test-taking, s/he has had little experience with communicative English and has no sense of ownership of the language. Because of this lack of oral communicative skills, process drama is an ideal means to build the bridge to communicative competence. This paper is part of a larger tri-semester process drama project and the data accumulated from all three will be used as evidence in a final PhD dissertation. Although steps have been taken to address the issue of ijime or bullying, it remains is a serious social problem within the Japanese educational system. The main focus of this pilot study was to ascertain how beneficial process drama could be in developing oral communicative skills in the target language of English as well as to build social awareness through the deconstruction of the bully and victim dichotomy. Process drama in language acquisition is unique in its aim to fuse language learning and personal development. The average Japanese university student has had six years of compulsory English education, with an emphasis on grammar-translation and accuracy. This means that, while the average student excels at translation and test-taking, s/he has had little experience with communicative English and has no sense of ownership of the language. Because of this lack of oral communicative skills, process drama is an ideal means to build the bridge to communicative competence. This paper is part of a larger tri-semester process drama project and the data accumulated from all three will be used as evidence in a final PhD dissertation.

scholarly journals Promoting Student Intercultural Communicative Competence in the Japanese Context

2020 ◽  
Vol 2019 (1) ◽  
pp. 321
Author(s):  
Adam Christopher
Keyword(s):  
University Students ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Communicative Competence ◽  
Language Instruction ◽  
Target Language ◽  
Intercultural Communicative Competence ◽  
Efl Learners ◽  
Japanese University ◽  
Positive Attitudes ◽  
The Impact

The impact of culture on language has been acknowledged for many years (Vygotsky, 1962) as well as how local culture may influence the communication strategies and interactions of EFL learners. Since intercultural communicative competence is the key to such communication, I investigated the perceptions of Japanese university students of integrating American and British cultural activities with language learning both in and outside of the EFL classroom. Data were collected through a questionnaire administered to 78 university students. The results suggest that students had positive attitudes and an interest in developing further understanding of the target language culture both in and outside of class. Furthermore, they believed that the target language culture should be incorporated in the teaching of foreign languages. Therefore, this study highlights the need for integrating the teaching of culture with language instruction into the curriculum in the Japanese context. 言語に対する文化の影響は、長年にわたって広く認識されている（Vygotsky、1962）。同様に、地域の文化がEFL学習者のコミュニケーション戦略と交流にどのように影響するかについても広く認識されている。したがって、異文化コミュニケーション能力は、国際コミュニケーションを成功させるための重要な要素である。本研究では、大学生のEFL教室と授業外での米国及び英国の文化活動と語学学習の統合に対する認識を調査している。調査は、日本の大学の78人のEFL大学生に実施された。結果は、生徒がクラスの内外で対象言語の文化を理解することに前向きな姿勢と関心を示したことを示唆している。さらに、彼らは対象言語の文化が外国語の授業に組み込まれるべきであると信じていた。したがって、この研究は、日本の実情に即して、文化と言語を統合的に教える必要性を強調している。

A Constructivist Approach to Game-Based Language Learning

2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. 19-40 ◽  
Author(s):  
James York ◽  
Jonathan William deHaan
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Communication Skills ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Experimental Methodology ◽  
Constructivist Approach ◽  
Action Research Project ◽  
Communicative Skills ◽  
Japanese University ◽  
Board Games ◽  
Second Year

This article provides information on an action research project in a low-level EFL setting in Japan. The project aims were to 1) foster spoken communication skills and 2) help students engage with their own learning. The project investigated the applicability of board games as a mediating tool for authentic communication as part of a wider TBLT approach to language development. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected from 115 first and second year Japanese university students via a questionnaire at the end of a seven-week course using the experimental methodology. Responses to the questionnaire indicated that the framework was perceived to be valuable in both fostering communicative skills and improving student engagement. Methodological improvements were also suggested. Implications applicable to teachers working in similar contexts are discussed, as well as possible improvements for future implementations.

scholarly journals Applying Measurement of Situational Self-Determination Theory to Use of a Self-Access Centre at a Japanese University

2018 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 1
Author(s):  
Graham G. Robson ◽  
Darrell J. Hardy
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Second Language Learning ◽  
Native Speakers ◽  
Self Determination Theory ◽  
Self Determination ◽  
Target Language ◽  
Learner Motivation ◽  
Japanese University ◽  
Self Study

One way to promote autonomy in the second language can be through the use of Self-access Centres (SACs). These are spaces for students to engage in activities such as self-study or communication with other learners, or native-speakers of the target language. However, merely having these spaces available does not guarantee that students will use the facility effectively, or even attend at all, so a degree of learner motivation linked with visiting the SAC would be necessary. Deci and Ryan’s (1985) Self-Determination Theory (SDT) has been used as the base for numerous studies in second language learning, including those in Japan. Proponents claim SDT is both universal and can be measured on different levels, which are global, situational and state. The authors sought to validate a measure of four subscales of SDT (Intrinsic Motivation, Identified Regulation, Introjected Regulation and External Regulation) written for this study at the situational level among undergraduates using an SAC at a Japanese University (n = 83). The rationale for items at this level comes from the field of psychology (Vallerand & Ratelle, 2002) and a study of second language constructs (Robson, 2016). A factor analysis confirmed four reliable factors, as hypothesized. Further, simplex correlations between the subconstructs somewhat confirms the underlying continuum posited by SDT researchers. These results may lead to a body of work that validates SDT theory in second language learning.

Communication networks of Japanese language learners in their home country

2004 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
pp. 153-178 ◽  
Author(s):  
Naomi Kurata
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
Communication Networks ◽  
Native Speakers ◽  
Home Country ◽  
Communicative Competence ◽  
Target Language ◽  
Japanese Language ◽  
Language Play ◽  
The Relationship

This paper deals with communication networks of four upper-intermediate level Japanese language learners with in-country experience who are studying at an Australian university, and it also examines the relationship between the learners’ networks and language learning. Utilizing Boissevain’s criteria for network analysis, I compared the characteristics of the informants’ current networks with those that existed prior to their in-country experiences. In addition, this study applied the framework of communicative competence developed by Hymes and Neustupny to analyse the informants’ language learning that occurred within their networks. The study found that a number of characteristics of the informants’ networks, such as their multiplex social roles and the variety of backgrounds of their Japanese network interactants, were probably related to the raising of the learners’ non-linguistic as well as linguistic awareness. It therefore appears that learners’ out-of-class communication networks with native speakers of the target language play an important role in terms of language learning.

scholarly journals What Do We Know About the Language Learning Motivation of University Students in Japan? Some Patterns in Survey Studies

2003 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
pp. 86 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kay Irie
Keyword(s):  
University Students ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Goal Orientation ◽  
Target Language ◽  
Performance Goal ◽  
Japanese University ◽  
Performance Orientation ◽  
Utilitarian Value ◽  
Integrative Motivation ◽  
And Performance

This review identifies patterns of motivation exhibited by Japanese university students by examining a representative selection of survey studies that have mainly employed factor analysis and which have been conducted since 1990. This collection of surveys includes works published in Japanese. Two sets of contrasting motivational concepts highlight the recurring patterns: (a) instrumental and integrative motivation and (b) mastery and performance goal orientation. The research suggests that Japanese university students appreciate a utilitarian value of learning English, and have an interest in communicating with native speakers of the target language. While performance orientation may be important, mastery orientation has been shown to relate more strongly to the use of strategies. The review also demonstrates the relevance and limitations of these constructs. 本論では１９９０年以降に発表された日本人大学生の言語学習モチベーション(L2motivation) に関するアンケート調査（日本語で発表されたものを含む）の報告にみられる傾向を検証する。理解を助ける為、二組の概念が用いられる。一つはすでによく知られているガードナーの道具的及び統合的動機、もう一つは比較的新しいマスタリーとパフォーマンス志向である。先行研究によると日本人学生は英語学習の道具的な価値を認め、旅行やNSとの交流に興味を持っていることがわかる。パフォーマンス志向の存在が認められるもののマスタリー志向の方がより強く学習ストラテジーの使用と関連性があると報告されている。本稿ではこれらのモチベーション概念が日本人大学生の動機づけを理解する上での妥当性及び限界考察する。尚、因子分析の役割と現在の言語学習モチベーションについても言及する。（３７４字）

scholarly journals HIGHER EDUCATION TEACHING STRATEGIES: AN OVERVIEW OF ENGLISH CLASSES

2018 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 183
Author(s):  
L. Angelianawati
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Teaching Strategies ◽  
English Language ◽  
English Education ◽  
English Teachers ◽  
Target Language ◽  
English Language Learning ◽  
English Classes ◽  
Higher Education Teaching

ABSTRAk   Salah satu komponen utama dalam perencanaan pendidikan tinggi adalah pengajaran. Berkaitan dengan pembelajaran bahasa Inggris, pengajaran berpengaruh terhadap keberhasilan siswa di kelas bahasa Inggris. Pemilihan strategi mengajar yang tepat, yang dilakukan oleh guru bahasa Inggris, membantu pembentukan proses pembelajaran Bahasa yang efektif dan tepat sasaran. Terdapat banyak strategi mengajar yang sesuai untuk pembelajaran bahasa Inggris di pendidikan tinggi. Dalam tulisan ini akan diuraikan beberapa strategi mengajar tersebut, termasuk persyaratan dan hambatannya. Pemahaman tentang strategi mengajar terbaik yang sesuai dengan kelas bahasa Inggris sangat penting bagi guru bahasa Inggris. Ulasan dalam tulisan ini diharapkan dapat menghasilkan perbaikan dalam praktik mengajar pendidikan bahasa Inggris di perguruan tinggi.   Kata Kunci: Pendidikan Tinggi, Metode Pengajaran, Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris     ABSTRACT   One of the main components in higher education planning is teaching. Regarding to English language learning, teaching distributes influences toward the learners’ successfulness in English classes. The appropriate selection of teaching strategies conducted by the English teachers help shaping effective and on-target language learning processes. There are many teaching strategies applicable to English language learning in higher education. The present writing elaborates discussions about those teaching strategies, including its requirements and barriers. Understanding the best teaching strategies which fit the English classes is considerately important for English teachers. It is expected that the discussion will result in the betterment on English teaching practices in higher education.   Key Words: Higher Education, Teaching Strategies, English Education

scholarly journals Exploring literary texts to develop students’ creative writing skills: proposed activities for Spanish as a foreign language

2020 ◽  
pp. 41-49
Author(s):  
Carmen Martín de León ◽  
Cristina García Hermoso
Keyword(s):  
Creative Writing ◽  
Foreign Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Communicative Competence ◽  
Writing Skills ◽  
Learning Activities ◽  
Literary Texts ◽  
Communicative Skills ◽  
Fictional Worlds ◽  
Cultural Skills

Literary texts offer a rich environment for language learning that teachers can exploit to develop not only students’ linguistic (pragmatic, discursive) and cultural skills, but also communication and creative skills. In our study, we have used literature with different writing activities that involved the use of students’ imagination and creativity. In order to develop these skills, which require students’ communicative competence as well as their imagination, we need for them to be able to create the meaningful contexts that lie within fictional stories. The assumption is that, as students become familiar with the characters in the novels, they will be able to recreate situations that make sense for those very stories, generating a shared world in which they could immerse themselves. In that shared world, they would be able to participate in possible dialogues and build stories that could have taken place, thus developing their creative and communicative skills. In this paper, we show how the literature-based learning activities that we have designed following this hypothesis have helped students empathise with characters in novels and imagine fictional worlds. Such new fictional worlds have in turn empowered students to communicate in Spanish in an authentic way, that is, in a way that is similar to that of the characters in the novels.

scholarly journals The development of students’ sociocultural competence in English at linguistic higher educational institutions

2018 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Verbal Behavior ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
Native Speakers ◽  
Communicative Competence ◽  
Target Language ◽  
Educational Institutions ◽  
Communicative Skills ◽  
Social Settings ◽  
Approach To Teaching ◽  
Main Components

The article deals with the problem of teaching sociocultural competence in the target language to students learning English for professional purposes. The point of the issue is that the most effective way of teaching creative, culturally determined social communication in the target language a more fruitful approach to teaching a sociocultural competence is based on taking into account the linguistic, speech, psychological and psycholinguistic difficulties experienced by Azerbaijani students who learn English for developing communicative purposes. Language learners’ attention should be concentrated on similarities and differences between two cultures and dynamic nature of social interaction. Teaching should be done to master language university students’ sociocultural skills in productive communicative skills. The teacher’s role will be to encourage and facilitate the application of individual learning in social settings, bringing groups of learners together to put them through their paces. One of the main components of a communicative competence as well as linguistic, discursive and strategic competences is a sociocultural competence. It should be noted that the formation of the sociocultural competence implies with the formation of verbal behavior norms, non-verbal behavior norms are adopted among the native speakers. One of the significant factors contributing to the success of communication is the use of participants of the target language. It should be noted that today at all stages of teaching English as a specialty the main attention is traditionally focused on teaching the language system despite the urgency and importance of the problem of the sociocultural component formation of the communicative competence.

scholarly journals Social and Cultural Focus in EFL Learning. Does Understanding Target Language Culture Increase Interaction in the EFL Classroom?

2016 ◽  
Vol 8 (6) ◽  
pp. 53
Author(s):  
Hamza Alshenqeeti
Keyword(s):  
Social Learning ◽  
Social Construction ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Knowledge Sharing ◽  
Language Proficiency ◽  
Communicative Competence ◽  
Cultural Knowledge ◽  
Target Language ◽  
Cultural Learning ◽  
Efl Learning

The value of encouraging interaction in the EFL classroom has been well documented in the literature and numerous methods have been indicated as being beneficial in this respect. Similarly, there is also a growing recognition of the value of incorporating social and cultural learning about the target language and its speakers into the EFL curriculum. In line with Vygotsky’s view that learning is social construction that occurs when individual integrate and participate in activities and knowledge sharing, this would suggest that incorporating cultural and social learning into the language learning classroom can increase the integration of students. Drawing on definitions of culture, highlighting potential routes to providing information about target language culture and identifying the connections between cultural knowledge and language proficiency and communicative competence, the perspective is put forward that social and cultural learning can lead to increased integration in the EFL classroom. 

The Role of Classroom-Situated Game-Based Language Learning in Promoting Students' Communicative Competence

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. 59-82 ◽  
Author(s):  
Qiao Wang
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Communicative Competence ◽  
Vital Role ◽  
Simulation Game ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Linguistic Support ◽  
Japanese University ◽  
Language Classrooms

The study is the second in a series of mixed-methods studies on the integration of The Sims 4, a life-simulation game, into language classrooms. In this study, the researcher explores the effect of game-based language learning (GBLL) on students' English communicative competence from three aspects, interaction, fluency and content, in a Japanese university. In class, students received instruction from the teacher on game language and gameplay skills, played the game on their own and presented gameplay stories. The presentations were recorded for evaluation. Surveys were also administered for students' perceptions on the GBLL classroom. Results showed that no clear improvement in communicative competence was suggested by quantitative evaluation. Qualitatively data, however, indicated that the game afforded students interesting events and proper expressions in presentations and that the teacher played a vital role in ensuring ample interactional opportunities and linguistic support. Suggestions for future research in classroom-situated GBLL were also proposed.

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