JAL4530

Introduction to teaching Japanese as a foreign language

Robyn Spence-Brown

8 or 12 points -2 hours per week -First semester -Clayton -Prerequisites: An undergraduate minor in Japanese language or equivalent competence in Japanese (Refer to Arts undergraduate handbook)

Objectives Students should develop an understanding of some of the major theoretical and practical issues associated with the teaching and acquisition of Japanese as a foreign language, and the ability to relate and apply this understanding to their own situations and experiences.

Synopsis This subject provides a broad introduction to theoretical and practical issues in the teaching and acquisition of Japanese as a foreign language and the relations between them. It addresses such questions as: What do students need to know and be able to do in order to interact in Japanese? What are the possible purposes and aims of language teaching? How do people learn 'language' and what is the role of teaching? How should we go about designing and teaching courses? The aim is not to provide definitive answers but to introduce students to a cross-section of current thinking and research on relevant issues. Seminar discussions and activities will enable students to relate the general issues to their own teaching and learning situations and to learn from the experiences of others.

Assessment (8 points) One exercise (1500 words): 20% -One essay (3000 words): 40% -Test (1.5 hours): 40%
Assessment (12 points) Two exercises (1500 words each): 30% -One essay (4000 words): 30% -Test (2 hours): 40%

Back to the 1999 Arts Handbook