“Japanese Language Education” for Japanese Native Speakers: Reasons and Methods

Abstract

This study discusses the reasons and methods for Japanese language teachers involved in Japanese language education for Japanese native speakers. Firstly, I summarize the reasons in three points: (1) As people who work with non-native speakers, we need to convey successful communication strategies to Japanese native speakers to use with non-native speakers. (2) As teachers of the dominant language in Japan, we need to protect the values of minority languages and the rights of their speakers, in other words, to commit to our part in establishing “linguistic equality” in society. (3) As teachers of communication, we need to stimulate dialogue to resolve divisions and conflicts caused by cultural differences in values or beliefs. For methodology, I outline the following four points: (1) an alternative framework for Japanese language teacher training programs, (2) the positioning of Japanese language education as general education for citizens, (3) outreach to responsible stakeholders, and (4) the involvement of Japanese language teachers in corporate training programs. As an example, I present a summary of one Japanese language education course for Japanese native speakers that is a part of the liberal arts curriculum in a university.