Journal of Applied Languages and Linguistics

Research Article

 

TITLE:  Good Chemistry: Implementing a Project-Based Learning Classroom in Japan

Authors: Greg Gagnon, Walter Tsushima

Greg Gagnon

Institution:  University of Fukui

Mailing address: Mailing address: 3-9-1 Bunkyo, Fukui-shi, Fukui Japan 910-8507

Email : gagnon.greg@yahoo.com

Walter Tsushima

Institution: University of Fukui

Mailing address: 3-9-1 Bunkyo, Fukui-shi, Fukui Japan 910-8507

Email: wtsushima@hotmail.com

Published online: 31 December 2018, pp. 98-107

Citation: Gagnon, G. & Tsushima, W. (2018). Good Chemistry: Implementing a Project-Based Learning Classroom in Japan. Journal of Applied languages and Linguistics, 2(2), pp. 98-107.

 

Abstract

One of the challenges in Japan is how to encourage university graduates to speak more English in order to communicate world-wide. Project-based Learning (PBL) is one way to encourage communicative ability. PBL increases student understanding and professionalism of science. PBL makes the students active participants in learning. This paper discusses how a PBL class bridged the gap between English language skills and science education in an university in Japan. Before this, no university in Japan successfully implemented a PBL class with input from teachers of both the Japanese-speaking faculty and English-speaking faculty. It discusses how the class was developed and planned, what was done in conjunction with various Engineering faculty members, and how it was received by the students. The ideas and challenges of a hybrid class is discussed.  Finally, the authors discuss ways that PBL can be used to teach content as well as language skills simultaneously.

 

© Applied Language Studies House Publications 2018. All rights reserved.

 

Keywords: Project Based Learning; PBL; English as a Second Language; Japanese education; science education; engineering; university teaching; hybrid classes