Japanese Language Teacher Training Program < Lesson 6 >

Based on the information provided, let's break down the course content into three parts as requested:

1. The Aim of Business Japanese

The aim of learning Business Japanese is to enable learners to communicate effectively in a business context. This includes understanding and using the appropriate vocabulary, expressions, and etiquette that are specific to the business world. Proficiency in Business Japanese can open up opportunities for international trade, cross-cultural collaboration, and global communication. The goal is not just to speak the language but to understand its nuances and cultural context so that one can navigate business situations confidently and professionally.

2. Business Japanese Learners

Business Japanese learners come from a variety of backgrounds and possess different levels of proficiency in Japanese. They may include:

• International students attending Japanese universities who aim to work in Japan after graduation.
• Professionals working for multinational companies who need to communicate with Japanese business partners.
• Individuals from Japanese companies looking to expand their international communication skills.
• People interested in understanding the intricacies of Japanese corporate culture and business practices.

These learners are motivated by the need to function effectively in a business environment, whether it's negotiating contracts, attending meetings, or establishing professional relationships.

3. The Theory of Language Teaching

The theory of language teaching provides a framework for understanding how languages are best taught and learned. Key concepts from Jack C. Richards and Theodore S. Rogers' "Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching" (second Edition, Cambridge University Press, 2001) can be applied to the teaching of Business Japanese. These include:

• Social Learning Theory: Emphasizing the importance of learning through social interaction rather than isolated individual practice.
• Communicative Language Teaching (CLT): Focusing on meaningful communication in real-life contexts, which is particularly relevant for Business Japanese.
• Task-Based Language Learning (TBLL): Organizing instruction around tasks that are representative of real-world activities, such as presenting a business proposal or participating in a negotiation.
• Content-Based Instruction (CBI): Teaching language through content that is meaningful and relevant to the learners, in this case, business-related topics.
• Interactive Approaches: Using dialogic methods that involve both teacher and student interaction and student interaction with the text or task at hand.

Professor Hajime Takamizawa's extensive experience as a Business Japanese professor and his involvement with various international educational organizations position him well to guide students through these theories and apply them effectively to the teaching of Business Japanese. His publications, including textbooks like "Business Japanese 1" and "Business Japanese 2," reflect his expertise in this field and his commitment to enhancing Business Japanese education.