The Role of Support Students in Japanese Language Classes:

From a Questionnaire Survey of Teachers

Abstract

In Japanese language classes for international students at universities, there are opportunities in which Japanese students enrolled at the school enter the classroom as supporters to help international students learn Japanese. This study conducted a survey of Japanese language teachers’ use of support students. The survey results indicated that many teachers need support students, especially as conversation practice partners and as a resource for Japanese (language) of their own generation. Furthermore, this survey shows teachers encourage Japanese students’ participation in the classes, not only to support Japanese language study, but also for the partner role of learning together. On the other hand, support students’ unscheduled absences are frequently cited as problems.