The Research Question

Being that the Japanese education system is still largely traditional in teaching methods, it is understandable that students going into an English class taught by native English speakers may have a difficult time adjusting to the changes in teaching styles. A key element in traditional Japanese teaching methods is that it is teacher-centered rather than student-centered. Thus, this may make participation done in a student-centered approach rather uncomfortable for students - even creating stress and anxiety. Despite this, it is important to know that (generally speaking) students at the university level actually do not prefer traditional learning methods. Instead, they hope and rely on their teachers to create culturally-sensitive and interactive learning methods.

The cultural concept of amae is an important structure in which individuals along the spectrum of social roles take part in interdependent relationships. This socio-cultural structure involves individuals being taken care of by other individuals who are often seen as more knowledgeable - just as children rely on their parents for care, students in Japan may also rely on their teachers for that same level of intimate care. And just as children should not question their parents, students do not question their teachers. Other acts such as voicing opinions, disagreeing with teachers, or even asking for clarification are avoided out of respect for their teachers and the relationship students have with them. 

Broadly speaking, a concept that Japan as a society adheres to is, “the nail that sticks out gets hammered in.” This popular saying encourages individuals to not disrupt social harmony and breaking socially accepted rules. Unfortunately, individuals that go beyond the norms may suffer consequences. An example of ijime and how it impacts participation in the EFL university setting is students maintaining shared negative attitudes. As a group, if the general attitude towards English, the classroom, or even the teacher is negative, then that dictates the general atmosphere of the classroom environment. The minority of students who do have a positive outlook on the English language, the classroom, or the teacher are more than likely to remain silent to avoid being ostracized. 

Unlike in many Western society, Japan is a society where communication is low in context. Thus, details are unnecessary where having the ability to inference is. This then, in communication, gives the responsibility to the listener. It is the listener’s duty to understand what the speaker is saying through attentive listening and inferences. In the United States, for an example, the speaker has the responsibility to convey their thoughts effectively to the listener. If not, the listener is free to ask for clarity. But in Japan, it is unlikely that the listener will ask for clarity. This is a reason why when teachers ask their Japanese students, "Do you have any questions,'' they are met with silence - believing that their students understand the content when they might actually not. The fear of not being able to comprehend what the speaker has just said is because of listener responsibility.