Summary: Learn the needs and characteristics of ESL students in Japan while exploring the country's culture! Explore the unique cultural differences between how English is taught in Japan, and compare it with English language classrooms in the United States. You will get a chance to observe all levels of English classrooms, from elementary to post-high school. Are you an upper-level TESOL student? Then consider taking the practicum option while you are on the program! New friends, immersing yourself in a new culture, and a chance to prepare for a life teaching English internationally – what are you waiting for?

Location: Built as a castle town during the early 1600s, Hikone retains much of its original charm. Spend your time visiting sites such as Hikone Castle, one of only twelve Japanese castles to remain in its original construction. After a day of sightseeing, head back to our campus directly on the shores of Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan and the third oldest lake in the entire world.

Looking for modern conveniences? In Hikone's vibrant downtown area, you can chill out in large malls, eat at a wide variety of restaurants, and even sing your heart out at one of many karaoke shops. Want to explore other parts of Japan? The city is only a short train ride away from the cities of Kyoto and Osaka, and on the bullet train line to Tokyo.

Cultural demonstrations: Visit the local Japanese universities, travel the country with your classmates, and engage in weekly cultural activities right on JCMU's campus.

Field trips & other benefits: You will be provided with your own bike to use while on the program. In addition, you will have the chance to go on a field excursion with your classmates! The location & date of the excursion are subject to change on a yearly basis, but past students have been taken to Kyoto, Nara, Uji, and more.




Field trips, cultural demonstrations, homestay opportunities, and more!

All students are provided with housing in the JCMU residence hall and may apply to live with a host family.

You will take the following classes while you are on the program:
• (3 credits) TESOL Methods Course/Practicum: You will participate in a course focusing on national and international approaches to ESL teaching while observing various ESL classrooms and settings. Rather than merely studying about TESOL methods from a textbook though, you will have the opportunity to actually travel to and observe various English language classrooms both at JCMU and at local school! Upper-level TESOL students can choose to take a TESOL practicum course in lieu of the normal TESOL methods course.

While taking this course, you will gain a deeper understanding of the characteristics and needs of ESL education in Japan, providing you with practical skills and knowledge for a career in TESOL. This experience will be especially useful if you are planning on teaching English in Japan on the JET program (or other similar teaching opportunities) in the future.

• (3 credits) Japanese Culture & Society Course: This course will present you with the opportunity to further explore the foundations of Japanese culture and society and how they shape the lives of the Japanese people, which will help you fully understand the similarities and differences in teaching methods that you notice in your TESOL methods course. Classroom lectures will be enhanced with guest lectures, site visits, and Japanese cultural demonstrations and activities.