I know its a dumb question but I heard it's much easier having English and linguistics training. Will I have to learn Japanese in order to work in Japan? What other research can I do before I graduate? (its not for awhile, roughly 2 and a half years.
Japan - 3 Answers
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1 :
Not a dumb question. If you get your four year degree, you should be able to work in Japan teaching English. All the better if your schooling is related to teaching or English. You don't need to know any Japanese either.Some schools don't want Japanese used in the classroom as it forces them to use English to communicate. It won't hurt if you learn some basic Japanese.It will also help if you learn something about the culture and people. You seem to be headed in the right direction.Good luck.
2 :
You should try the Jet Programme. My friend did it. She was fluent in Japanese, but one of her friends went and taught without knowing any Japanese. I think it is a hard program to get into and takes awhile so start now.
3 :
Actually, I don't think it is so dumb. Japan is moving toward a system where all 5th and 6th grade elementary students will be required to take English/international studies. There may be more demand for someone with training in elementary education (and there's a good demand for it right now). Sadly, training doesn't seem to be as important as Japanese language skills and just being there. If you can swing it, try to spend a semester or even a year in Japan. You can work up to 28 hours on a student visa (I think), and you can make important contacts while you are there. Also, you'd pick up Japanese language skills, which are very important, since I'd say 75 percent of elementary teachers don't want to speak any English. (Probably more.) I'm assuming you are a native speaker of English. I think it's a great opportunity, though! And something that will help you in your later career, if you decide to teach elementary in your home country. Edit: I second the JET program. I was in it almost two decades ago. It's a great way to round off your education. Check with your closest Japanese embassy/consulate for the details.
