A Japanese language class
A Japanese language class
Final presentation
Kimono-wearing experience
Furoshiki-wrapping experience
Closing ceremony
Meiji University Japanese Language Education Center offered the Meiji University Japanese Language Program Winter 2016 over a 15-day schedule from February 11 to February 25. This marked the 12th time the program has been held, and on this occasion, 47 students gathered from 9 countries. The program provided fulfilling and productive training in an international atmosphere, despite the short period of time.
The program comprises of Japanese language classes and field studies/activities.
In the Japanese language classes, participants were divided into classes suited to their proficiency based on the results of a placement test held on the first day. There were a total of 4 classes offered: 2 Beginner Classes, a Pre-intermediate Class, and an Intermediate Class. Classes were held mainly with the objective of improving verbal expression proficiency, along with textbook-based learning of grammar and expressions in each class.
The field studies/activities saw participants experience furoshiki-wrapping in addition to the kimono-wearing experience, which is always a popular activity, enabling them to learn about Japanese culture while having fun.
Additionally, there is a system in place in this program where Meiji University Japanese student supporters to fully back up the participants. On this occasion also, an environment was provided for participants to engage in exchange with Japanese students while using “living” Japanese, through their participation in Japanese Language Classes, taking the lead in field studies/activities, and life advice. A “Japanese Talking Cafe” and excursion to Kamakura were also arranged by the supporters, facilitating natural exchange between the students.
Although it is brief in duration, this program held for individuals who wish to visit Japan and learn Japanese places an importance on putting the Japanese learned to actual use in one’s own personal experiences. Going forward, we will continue to further enhance course content to make the program even more effective at experience-linked Japanese language acquisition.
*This program has been selected as one of the Student Exchange Support Programs (Scholarship for Short-term Study in Japan) sponsored by JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization).
