Can You Travel To Japan Without Knowing Japanese

Teaching English to Japanese students can be very difficult because of cultural and lingual differences. Japanese students are very different from American and European students. An advantage is their tendency to be more reserved and well behaved. However, they do not like to speak in class because they do not want to appear arrogant (Ikeda). This is a cultural custom and it will take extra encouragement to coax the students to talk. Also, students do not like to make eye contact and will become very embarrassed if they do not know an answer (Ikeda). Teachers must be sensitive to these manners in order to conduct a comfortable class for the students. A gradual progression toward a more English style class will be the most productive approach to classroom differences...  [Read more]

Japanese people are known to be well educated. In the case of English, most people have at least six years of English learning experience in school. However in reality, the majority of those people are not able to hold a short, basic conversation in English, even just a few lines of greeting. A language is a communication tool. If you cannot communicate with it, it is pointless to spend so much time and effort on learning it' Thus, clearly something is ineffective in the way that English was taught in Japan to my generation or to the generations who are old enough to prove this inefficient result. In this article, I try to describe the problems that Japanese people have and the appropriate teaching aspects in terms of their English fluency and pronunciation, from the...  [Read more]

  Would you like to travel overseas to live and work with the local people and experience a new culture? Completing a TEFL/TESOL certification course with ITTT can help you achieve this. In this TEFL review video trainee Stratton highlights the advantages of completing ITTT's four week in-class course in one of our international training centers. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. modal auxiliary verbs↵can, could, may, might, shall, should,...  [Read more]

1. Understanding the TESOL Industry 2. Factors to Consider When Choosing a TESOL Program 3. Tailored TESOL Programs for Japan 4. Conclusion The field of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is vast and diverse, offering numerous opportunities for individuals interested in teaching English as a second language. With the increasing demand for English language proficiency in countries like Japan, selecting a TESOL program tailored to the specific needs of this region is crucial for success. International TEFL and TESOL Training (ITTT) provides comprehensive TESOL programs designed to meet the unique requirements of teaching English in Japan. When considering a TESOL program, it is essential to evaluate various factors to ensure that the program aligns with your career goals...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Teaching Opportunities in Tokyo 3. Qualifications and Requirements 4. How ITTT Can Help Tokyo, the bustling capital city of Japan, offers a myriad of opportunities for those looking to teach English as a foreign language. With a unique blend of tradition and modernity, Tokyo attracts thousands of expats every year who are eager to immerse themselves in the rich culture and make a difference in the lives of their students. If you are considering a teaching career in Tokyo, this guide will provide you with valuable information on how to find teaching jobs in this vibrant city. Tokyo is home to a diverse range of language schools, international schools, and private tutoring opportunities, making it a prime destination for TEFL and TESOL certified teachers. Language schools...  [Read more]

If you plan on teaching English in Europe you might have come across something known as the Schengen Area. This area is currently comprised of 26 countries with a combined population of over 400 million people. The area was set up in 1985 with the intention of removing border controls to make moving between countries hassle free. The Schengen Area should not be confused with the European Union which is a separate institution. Before its creation you would have to show your passport at every border to receive an entry stamp, while now anyone including TEFL teachers can move freely from one country to another without any restrictions. Essentially, by entering a country that is a member of the Schengen Area you are entering the area as a whole. Regardless of which country you enter first, the...  [Read more]

In today's globalized world, the demand for English teachers is on the rise, especially in countries like Japan where English proficiency is essential for academic and professional success. Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) in Japan can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it requires a specific set of qualifications to be successful. This article will explore the qualifications needed to teach English in Japan, the benefits of pursuing a career in TEFL, and how ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training) can help you achieve your goals. 1. **Bachelor's Degree:** One of the primary qualifications needed to teach English in Japan is a bachelor's degree in any field. Most schools and language institutes in Japan require English teachers to have a minimum of a bachelor's...  [Read more]

To Teach, Travel, Work and Live abroad! says the ITTT website. Indeed, the main reasons for wanting to be a certified TEFL teacher are most probably these. If you are a student, to travel the world, discover different cultures, meet new people and learn the local language. If you are an office employee, frustrated by the routine and bored with your job, to escape to China or Japan to teach and learn about Buddhism. If you are an experienced teacher, to give a new dimension to your teaching. If you want to help others, to do volunteer work in Africa.There are a multitude of personal and professional reasons that may motivate people from all walks of life to do a TEFL course. For me it was to be a real teacher. This is my story.I am a native English speaker, but have lived in...  [Read more]

Are you considering a career change or looking to explore new opportunities in education? Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) can be a rewarding and exciting career path, especially in Asia where the demand for English teachers is high. With the right qualifications and training, you can embark on a journey of cultural immersion, personal growth, and professional development. At ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training), we offer comprehensive TEFL certification courses that will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive job market in Asia. Our courses are internationally recognized and accredited, ensuring that you receive top-notch training that meets the highest standards. Whether you are a recent graduate, a seasoned educator, or someone...  [Read more]

Congratulations if you have recently completed a TEFL certification course and are now looking for that all important first teaching position. As learning English is commonplace in the majority of countries around the world, qualified TEFL teachers rarely find it difficult to secure a good job. However, the level of demand can vary greatly from one place to the next, which also means the level of requirements can vary. What is required in one country might be completely different to the requirements in its immediate neighbor. As mentioned above, the demand for qualified TEFL teachers varies considerably and can have a big effect on where you might end up working in your first teaching position. Certain countries also have stricter rules and regulations than others, as do individual...  [Read more]

Every year tens of thousands of people from all backgrounds leave behind their existing life and head overseas in search of fun, travel and adventure. They are able to do this by completing a TEFL certification course that gives them all the qualifications they need to apply for English language teaching jobs in countries all over the world. If you want to join this ever growing number of TEFL qualified teachers, there should be very little that can get in your way. Among the many attractions of teaching English abroad is the fact that you are free to choose not only the region where you would like to work, but also the specific country or even city. For some teachers the history and culture of Europe appeals most, while others are drawn to exotic destinations across Asia or Latin...  [Read more]

If you are bored with the everyday grind and want a new life that is full of travel and adventure, TEFL could be the perfect option for you. First you need to choose the right TEFL course to suit your situation and then work your way through the training. Once you have completed the course and you have your TEFL certificate in hand you will be ready to head overseas to start work as an English language teacher in the country of your choice. These acronyms are used when referring to training courses that English language teachers undertake, as well as the certification they receive upon completion. TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. As these terms are essentially the same, they are often used...  [Read more]

Confidence is very important for a teacher to have. How can students feel confident if their teaching is not' Confidence can be hard to come by especially if you are a new teacher. It begins with you and there are some things you can do to build up your confidence. Before you even enter the classroom imagine how you would like your class to run and set the appropriate goals to achieve that aim. Be sure that your goals are attainable and can be reached by you and your students without unnecessary pressure. 'Start slowly and simply. Establish a daily routine your students can handle.'*Prepare thoroughly for the class. This will take time and effort. To make the class interesting for your students you will probably add things to the lesson or have activities. For these to be...  [Read more]

Teachers everywhere can attests to the fact that motivating students is not an easy task. One really has to work hard, be persistent and be creative at the same time in order to even attempt to motivate an unwilling student. Despite the difficulties encountered, motivation is a crucial component involved with teaching any student. A student's desire to participate in the learning process will essentially determine whether he/she will succeed or fail. The reasons for a student's motivation can vary a great deal, however there are basically two types of ways in which a student can be motivated. They can either be intrinsically motivated, which means they take part in the activity for their own enjoyment and for their own learning benefits, or they can be extrinsically...  [Read more]

With long summers and mild winters, countless sandy beaches, a laid-back lifestyle, great food, and hundreds of islands to explore, Greece has been a popular teaching destination for many years. Unfortunately, the country’s recent economic woes have had a negative impact on the number of available jobs and it may be sometime before it fully recovers. However, there are still plenty of teaching positions on offer if you are willing to seek them out and you fit the necessary criteria. Due to the economic problems in recent times there has been a reduction in the number of teaching jobs on offer across Greece. This reduction means that employers are now more picky about who they choose to fill vacant positions. Also, it has become increasingly difficult for non-EU citizens to obtain the...  [Read more]

Learning English can be very confusing to speakers of other languages. Music promotes, mantains and restores mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health and facilitates contact, interaction, self-awareness and communication. Finding the right song at the right time is the key for most teachers.What will they use the song for' Will they use it as a filler, to fill in the gaps of time between the next lesson' Will they use it to teach pronounciation' Clauses' To finish/match sentence halves' What the teacher uses the song for in the classroom will have a tremendous effect on how the students learn with the song.I have only so far used songs with beginners. When I used the songs, I also used big expressions, and hand gestures, which really hook them in and gain their...  [Read more]

There are many great songs in English that can be used to teach certain aspects of grammar, vocabulary, culture and idioms just to name a few possible uses. A teacher needs to be careful of using only old songs, especially if the students are more in tune with modern English music. There will always be classic songs from The Beatles, Bob Dylan, The Who and others that can be used. The challenge for the modern teacher is to be aware of the current music and teaching possibilities from new songs. Teaching idioms is one of the easiest topics to find new songs to use. It is hard not to listen to a new pop or rock song and not find some idiom used. For example Bon Jovi's new song 'Who Says You Can't Go Home' uses several idioms including the recycled 'born a rolling...  [Read more]

In building your confidence as a teacher, it is important to understand that the confidence you earn is a result of your affect. A teacher's management of the classroom, method of teaching, pride in their profession and respect for the individuals in the class are some of the important elements in the equation of building a teacher's confidence. In the paragraphs following, I have briefly stated ways in which I would practice classroom management for young and older students alike. If respect and care in a structure for the course and the students is carried out, than the students will have a strong desire to learn, which in return, give me self-assurance in my profession as a teacher.The procedures, strategies and instructional techniques that teachers use to manage student...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a foreign language can be done one of two ways: teaching a group of students or by teaching on a one-to-one basis. It's estimated that up to 40% of TEFL teaching is done one-to-one, however teachers find it increasingly difficult to find relevant material, advice and assistance on the method. Nicola Meldrum argues that teaching one-to-one 'unfortunately is not covered much in ELT discussion' and that 'It is somehow assumed that teaching English as a foreign language means organizing huge groups of students, while the reality is that one to one is a normal and significant part of our teaching lives' . Teachers are in effect left to their own devices; however this doesn't stop the concept of teaching one- to-one being an effective and advantageous method for...  [Read more]

Confidence is being able to talk with ease, have a constant flow of positive energy, and not let anything get you down. When someone is confident they have higher levels of self-esteem and this is projected in their outward behavior. There are few things someone can do in order to boost their confidence level. Here are few:Set goals. It is an important task to do. This is perhaps the most important task of them all. You should ask yourself what you wish to accomplish by being a more confident person. When you ask yourself this question, whatever comes to mind needs to be written down and constantly viewed a minimum of two times a day: Once in the morning and the second at night. This alone will enhance your confidence and bring your dreams to reality. Increase your voice level...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Top Cities for ESL Teaching in Japan 3. Teaching English in Tokyo 4. Teaching English in Osaka Are you considering teaching English as a foreign language in Japan? With its rich culture, advanced technology, and high demand for English teachers, Japan is a popular destination for ESL educators. When it comes to choosing a city to teach in, there are several factors to consider, such as the cost of living, job opportunities, and quality of life. In this guide, we will explore some of the top cities for ESL teaching in Japan and what each has to offer. Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is a top choice for ESL teachers due to its vast number of language schools, international companies, and cultural attractions. With a high demand for English teachers, Tokyo offers a...  [Read more]

The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET) is a government backed scheme that has been operating for over 30 years. Every year around 5,000 foreign nationals are placed into schools right across Japan with the intention of raising the language skills of young people. Unlike many similar programs in other countries, the JET Program also has a strong focus on cultural exchange between participants and the local population. Competition for places on the program is generally very tough as successful applicants receive a competitive salary and a range of extra benefits. The program is open to college graduates up to the age of 40, although its status as primarily a youth culture exchange means that recent graduates have a greater chance of success. The main criteria required is a minimum...  [Read more]

In the competitive world of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), Japan stands out as a lucrative destination for educators looking to enhance their careers and financial prospects. With its unique blend of traditional culture and modern amenities, Japan offers a rich and rewarding experience for TEFL teachers. However, to secure higher salaries and better opportunities in the Japanese TEFL market, certain qualifications and experiences are essential. In this guide, we will explore the key requirements necessary for TEFL teachers to unlock higher salaries in Japan. 1. Academic Qualifications: One of the primary factors that can impact your TEFL salary in Japan is your academic qualifications. Most employers in Japan prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in any field. While a...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) in Japan is a popular choice for many individuals looking to experience a new culture while also sharing their language skills. However, to secure a teaching position in Japan, there are certain qualifications and requirements that individuals must meet. In this article, we will discuss the qualifications needed to teach ESL in Japan, including education, certification, and other important factors. One of the primary qualifications for teaching ESL in Japan is having a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. While the field of study does not necessarily have to be in education or English, having a degree is typically a non-negotiable requirement for most teaching positions. Additionally, some schools or employers may prefer candidates...  [Read more]

Japanese people are known to be well educated. In the case of English, most people have at least six years of English learning experience in school. However in reality, the majority of those people are not able to hold a short, basic conversation in English, even just a few lines of greeting. A language is a communication tool. If you cannot communicate with it, it is pointless to spend so much time and effort on learning it? Thus, clearly something is ineffective in the way that English was taught in Japan to my generation or to the generations who are old enough to prove this inefficient result. In this article, I try to describe the problems that Japanese people have and the appropriate teaching aspects in terms of their English fluency and pronunciation, ...  [Read more]

1. Overview of TEFL Programs 2. Benefits of TEFL Programs 3. TEFL Certification Courses 4. TEFL Programs in Japan Are you considering teaching English as a foreign language in Japan? With a rich culture, fascinating history, and strong demand for English language education, Japan is a popular destination for TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) teachers. International TEFL and TESOL Training (ITTT) offers comprehensive TEFL certification courses to help you kickstart your teaching career in Japan. TEFL programs provide aspiring teachers with the necessary skills and qualifications to teach English to non-native speakers. Whether you are a recent graduate, a career changer, or someone looking to travel and work abroad, a TEFL certification can open doors to exciting opportunities...  [Read more]

Welcome to the exciting world of teaching English in Japan with ITTT! In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the various aspects of living and working as an English teacher in Japan. From the vibrant culture to the unique teaching opportunities, Japan offers a one-of-a-kind experience for those looking to teach English abroad. Japan is a popular destination for English teachers due to its high demand for English language education. With a rich history and a unique blend of tradition and modernity, Japan offers a fascinating backdrop for teaching English. As an English teacher in Japan, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, explore the country's breathtaking landscapes, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of your students. To teach English in...  [Read more]

From Sumo wrestling, the most authentic Japanese cuisine you’ve ever tasted, ancient castles and Pagodas, skiing in the mountainous north and beach hopping in the tropical south, ancient and bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka, Japan caters for every type of traveller. Japan is unlike any country you’ve ever been to with the most bizarre but fascinating experiences available throughout the country, and a scenery like no other. A distinct balance between ancient and modern- Japan opens up a whole new world. Nagoya is an ideal destination for an in-class, immersive TESOL course experience in Japan. It is the fourth largest city in Japan, which means that as a TESOL student, you get the full experience of high paced life in Japan, but at a much lower cost than bigger cities like the...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Accreditation and Recognition 3. Curriculum and Course Content 4. Practical Teaching Experience When considering a Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program with a focus on Japan, there are several factors to take into account to ensure that you are making the right choice for your career goals. Whether you are looking to teach English in Japan or simply want to enhance your teaching skills with a Japan-specific focus, it is essential to choose a program that meets your needs and provides you with the necessary tools for success. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a TESOL program is accreditation and recognition. Look for programs that are accredited by reputable organizations such as the Accrediting Council for Continuing...  [Read more]

Living in Japan has given me the opportunity to see difficulties Japanese people have with English first hand. I have also discussed this issue with my Japanese wife and several other Japanese people as well. I have even discussed it with native English speakers and got their thoughts on the subject. The biggest thing that I have noticed is their accent. I moved to Italy when I was seven and grew up learning Italian. So I developed both an Italian and American accent. When I first moved to Japan eleven years ago, instead of learning the language I first developed a Japanese accent which helped me considerably when I started to actually learn the language. My point is that when learning a language it is very important to develop the accent for that language. When...  [Read more]