What is expected for Japanese language teachers working in Japan and abroad?

Attributes and conditions of the job postings

Abstract

This research paper presents the findings of an analysis conducted on the characteristics and qualifications desired in educators working in private Japanese-language institutions in both domestic and international environments. The study was conducted by evaluating employment postings aimed solely at Japanese-language teachers. The survey revealed that 13.8% of the 1,485 job postings included the words “Japanese national,” “native speaker,” and “Japanese” in the application conditions. The results of a quantitative text analysis of the language used indicate that “four-year university degree,” “full-time experience,” and “classroom teaching experience” were more frequently required as conditions for working as full-time instructors at private Japanese-language schools in Japan than overseas. This implies the importance of distinguishing between nationality, native language, and specific attributes such as “Japanese” when evaluating the qualifications of teachers of the Japanese language. Additionally, it is crucial to take into consideration the transition in career paths when assessing qualifications in order to promote the engagement of young individuals in this profession.