Alaric Davis, Rintaro Ikegami, Naoko Ishimaru, Nabila Nurdjaman, Sora Oouchi, I-ting Tsai, Xier Xi, Yuto Yokokura, Wenxin Zhang, and Ying Zhou

Title: Graduate Student Reflections on their MA TESOL Program
Abstract
In the master’s program at Akita International University (AIU), students are taught to explore the juncture between theory and practice. In addition to learning best practices in SLA, there is an emphasis on practical classroom teaching through a series of practica in which students design and implement lessons in authentic contexts, such as in secondary schools or the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program at AIU. At every stage of their learning, students are encouraged to reflect on their developing understanding of what constitutes quality teaching as well as what it means to be considered an “expert” by virtue of their advanced degree.
In this presentation, students will share their struggles, shifting perspectives, budding research interests as well as “ah-ha” moments from their learning journey. Perspectives from first year students to those having recently graduated will be explored.
Presenters:
Alaric Davis
Rintaro Ikegami
Naoko Ishimaru
Nabila Nurdjaman
Sora Oouchi
I-ting Tsai
Xier Xi
Yuto Yokokura
Wenxin Zhang
Ying Zhou
Format:
There will be three concurrent sessions with three to four presenters in each room.
Each presenter will speak for 15-20 minutes. Observers will be free to move from room to room. Questions and comments from the audience is encouraged.