Why do Vietnamese learners choose to attend vocational schools in Japan?

An examination of push-pull factors in the context of studying Japan

Abstract

The number of international students from non-Kanji Asian countries is rapidly increasing in Japan, as well as the proportion of those who choose to pursue their studies in vocational schools. Studies have suggested that the learner’s low Japanese language proficiency prevent them from preparing for undergraduate courses in due time. In this study, I conducted an interview survey with Vietnamese learners and analyzed why they attended vocational schools by considering the push-pull factors of studying in Japan. There were cases where people had to revise their ideal self after coming to Japan and choose a vocational school instead of a university, and others where this was chosen as a shortcut to career development through work experience in Japan. This qualitative study revealed that not only Japanese language proficiency, but also the process leading up to studying abroad and the social environment are factors that compel students to choose vocational schools.