We study Japanese language as a vehicle connecting people from different cultural backgrounds

Generally speaking, applied Japanese linguistics covers two areas. On the one hand, it searches for effective methods of teaching Japanese as a foreign language. On the other hand, it strives to devise and implement techniques that would allow representatives of different cultures quickly and smoothly reach mutual understanding. In our department, Japanese students and exchange students from various countries and cultural backgrounds study Japanese and Japanese teaching and learning together. Everyone is able to work in a free, relaxed atmosphere, and the students get to know more, not only about linguistic or educational matters, but about Japanese society as a whole. During the Japanese language teaching practice they utilize this comprehensive knowledge as they design their own course on Japanese and teach it to foreign learners. This invaluable experience is one of the crucial parts of our program. Our students also learn how to use equipment necessary for lesson observation, study statistical methods, academic writing, and presentation techniques.
Graduates from our department may always pursue a career in education and research. However, a multitude of other options is also available to them, since they possess flexible and respectful approaches to different cultures and wide mental horizons — indispensable traits in the globalized society of today.