Introduction to Kitakyushu JALT
What is JALT?
JALT stands for The Japan Association for Language Teaching, a professional organisation dedicated to the improvement of language learning and teaching in Japan. It functions as a vehicle for the exchange of ideas and techniques, and a means of keeping abreast of new developments in this rapidly changing field.
Currently JALT has over 30 chapters with nearly 3,000 members located throughout Japan. In addition to local activities, an annual conference is held every year. Members also receive a monthly publication, The Language Teacher (also available online) featuring articles and information relating to language learning and teaching. The JALT Journal is also published annually containing both practical and theoretical articles and research reports. If you are interested in joining JALT, you can find out everything you need on our joining page. However, while we hope you will join us, you don't need to be a member to attend any of our events below.
Kitakyushu JALT - Our Local Chapter
The local Kitakyushu Chapter, while not so big, has already proven itself to be one of the most active in the country. We hold monthly meetings, usually attracting around 20-30 Japanese and foreign participants. These are held on the second Saturday of every month, starting at 6:30 pm in the International Conference Centre, (see map for details) a few minutes walk from Kokura Station in Kokura Kita-ku, Kitakyushu. JALT members are free, and non-members pay a mere ¥1000 for a one-day membership.
Most meetings feature a guest speaker, who will present on a topic relevant to language teaching. Past meetings have covered a wide range of topics, from language games to the philosophy of marking student's writing. Intense discussion invariably follows!
After each meeting, we usually have a short social time, with a chance to chat. After that, there's nearby entertainment district for yet another night of fun! If you would like more information on our meetings, and are unable to obtain your answers on this web-page, please don't hesitate to contact one of the committee below.
Contact & Committee
If you need to contact any of the committee members please contact us and we'll pass the message on to the relevant officer(s). Alternatively, check the JALT officers directory (sent out to all JALT members in April of each year) for full contact details. Or come to one of our meetings where you should find most of us.
- President - Margaret Orleans
- Japanese Liaison - Misako Kumagai
- Membership Chair - Hudson Murrell
- Program Chair - Takashi Inomori
- Publicity Chair - Frank Bailey
- Recording Secretary - Kristen Sullivan
- TLT Liaison - Dave Pite
- Treasurer - Gareth Steele