International Students’ Daily Activities and Use of Japanese Language:

A Study Using Experience Sampling Method

Abstract

This study investigates international students’ daily activities and their use of Japanese. Data were collected using the Experience Sampling Method (ESM), which captures participants’ activities and experiences in real time when prompted to respond. Data were collected regarding where students were, with whom they were, which language(s) they were using, and what activity they were engaged in. The results showed that academically related activities, particularly studying and attending classes, accounted for the largest proportion of reported activities. Students were most often in their own dormitories or apartments and frequently reported being alone. Japanese use was mainly associated with classes, studying, and transportation, indicating limited opportunities for interaction outside the classroom.