The Methodological Imperatives of Qualitative Research on English-taught Programs at Japanese Universities

抄録

The goal of this paper is to consider qualitative research within higher education institutions in Japan in response to the unique challenges of research done in and of these institutions; institutions which pose unique challenges to researchers due to the proximity to informants and the organization(s) in which the researcher is often involved. The author presents the most immediate needs for further qualitative research at Japanese HEIs (Higher Education Institution) and several of the challenges faced researching ETPs at Japanese universities; such research that is currently lacking but critical for the implementation of effective governmental education policies. The author then presents a discussion of tentative recommendations for addressing these risks toward creation of best practices.