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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for NPO The Japan Association for Language Teaching
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DTSTART:20220101T000000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260718T130000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260718T170000
DTSTAMP:20260716T071744Z
CREATED:20260716T071214Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260716T071744Z
UID:10004396-1784379600-1784394000@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Access Forum: Voices from Educators in Japan
DESCRIPTION:At Notre Dame Seishin University\, Okayama \n\n\n\nThis mini conference focuses on accessibility in education\, with particular attention to the experiences of educators with disabilities in Japan. \n\n\n\nThe event aims to raise awareness of barriers faced by educators and share practical strategies for inclusive teaching and workplace support. We would like to encourage dialogue between teachers\, institutions\, and the wider community to help promote inclusive practices that benefit both educators and students. Everyone is welcome. \n\n\n\nTopics include: how inclusion shapes compassion; teacher training experiences; the 2025 Global Disability Summit in Berlin; and more. Presentations will be in English and Japanese (translation available).
URL:https://jalt.org/event/accessibility-in-language-learning/access-forum-voices-from-educators-in-japan-2/
CATEGORIES:Accessibility in Language Learning,Okayama
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jalt.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/2026-07-18-final.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260718T130000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260718T170000
DTSTAMP:20260715T150143Z
CREATED:20260715T114443Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260715T150143Z
UID:10004395-1784379600-1784394000@jalt.org
SUMMARY:ACCESS FORUM: Voices from Educators in Japan
DESCRIPTION:A mini-conference focused on accessibility in language teaching \n\n\n\n\n\nBrought to you by Okayama JALT and JALT’s Accessibility in Language Learning (ALL) SIG \n\n\n\nThis mini conference focuses on accessibility in education\, with particular attention to the experiences of educators with disabilities in Japan. \n\n\n\nSpeakers: Mariko Takamatsu\, Ami Sasaki\, Teresa Stockwell \n\n\n\nThis event aims to raise awareness of barriers faced by educators and share practical strategies for inclusive teaching and workplace support. We would like to encourage dialogue between teachers\, institutions\, and the wider community to help promote inclusive practices that benefit both educators and students. Everyone is welcome. \n\n\n\nTopics include: how inclusion shapes compassion; teacher training experiences; the 2025 Global Disability Summit in Berlin; and more. Presentations will be in English and Japanese (translation available). \n\n\n\nMore information is available at: https://sunny-place.my.canva.site/teaching-with-difference
URL:https://jalt.org/event/accessibility-in-language-learning/access-forum-voices-from-educators-in-japan/
LOCATION:Notre Dame Seishin Women’s University\, Okayama\, 北区伊福町2-16-9\, 岡山市\, 岡山県\, 700-8516\, Japan
CATEGORIES:Accessibility in Language Learning,Okayama
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jalt.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/2026-07-18-final.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260620T130000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260620T150000
DTSTAMP:20260531T005507Z
CREATED:20260531T005148Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260531T005507Z
UID:10004372-1781960400-1781967600@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Okayama JALT June:
DESCRIPTION:Where East Meets West\, South & North – Virtual Exchange: Changing How Foreign Languages are Taught \n\n\n\n\n\nPresented by Eric Hagley\, APVEA & Griffith University \n\n\n\nThis presentation provides a comprehensive overview of Virtual Exchange (VE)\, examining synchronous and asynchronous frameworks alongside institutional benefits and challenges. Practical applications for language learning are highlighted through the International Virtual Exchange (IVE) Project and the Asia Pacific Virtual Exchange Association (APVEA)\, illustrating how these initiatives foster global student collaboration. \n\n\n\nDATE: Saturday\, 20 June\, 13:00~15:00 (earlier than usual) \n\n\n\nPLACE: Online; hybrid set-up at Okayama University Tsushima Campus\, General Education D Building\, Room D11
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/okayama-jalt-june/
LOCATION:Okayama University\, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka\, Okayama\, Japan
CATEGORIES:Okayama
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jalt.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot-2026-05-31-at-9.36.03-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260516T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260516T170000
DTSTAMP:20260507T011603Z
CREATED:20260507T010557Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T011603Z
UID:10004350-1778943600-1778950800@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Tracking Learner Engagement
DESCRIPTION:with Bradford Lee\, Fukui University of Technology (online) \n\n\n\nLearner engagement is a major predictor of success in L2 acquisition. It is therefore important to be able to measure engagement over time. However\, current research on L2 engagement has a number of shortcomings: 1) much is carried out in controlled research settings; 2) scaling is often impossible; 3) current methods are often highly intrusive; 4) many studies are short-term and unable to capture variation over time; and 5) many studies only investigate small student populations in a single environment. To overcome these issues\, we designed a mobile application for teachers to record L2 engagement levels through experience sampling\, a method used to collect data on learner experiences in-the-moment. I will describe the application and how we validated it\, and demonstrate its usefulness as a research and pedagogical instrument based on a pilot study. \n\n\n\n\n\n￥1000 for nonmembers
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/tracking-learner-engagement/
LOCATION:Online (but feel free to gather with us at Notre Dame Seishin University)
CATEGORIES:Okayama
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jalt.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-05-16-ROUGH.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260418T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260418T170000
DTSTAMP:20260411T030608Z
CREATED:20260407T120831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260411T030608Z
UID:10004324-1776524400-1776531600@jalt.org
SUMMARY:April Meeting: Fold Here - Zines in the Writing Classroom
DESCRIPTION:Matt French from Okayama University will share his creative ideas for helping students express their personal curiosity about the world through Zine Making! \n\n\n\n“Zine”\, as you might imagine\, is short for “magazine”\, via the internet-focused term “fanzine”. Zines allow an avenue for regular people\, especially fans of a certain subject or person\, to create written work that supports a topic they are passionate about\, and send it out to a niche audience. The underlying ethos of zine creation is not about making money\, but about spreading the word on a topic that excites you. This talk will look at zines\, show how making a physical zine might be integrated into a writing class\, give some tips about materials and production\, provide some examples of work produced\, and touch on the different outlooks between Western and Japanese approaches to zine creation. \n\n\n\nMatthew French has had a long and varied career spanning the public and private sectors\, ranging from federal government regulator to VFX artist for film and television. As an educator\, he looks to provide opportunities for students to engage with topics\, including English\, using their own specific skills and interests. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nVenue: Notre Dame Seishin University\, St. Joseph Hall\, International Communication Center (1st flr) \n\n\n\nPlease sign up for the event here.  We are required to give an attendance list to Seishin University.  Enter Seishin from the east gate.  There is a guard station there.  Give your name to the guardsman and tell them you are coming for JALT.  Thank you for your kind cooperation in this matter.
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/april-meeting-fold-here-zines-in-the-writing-classroom-2/
LOCATION:Notre Dame Seishin Women’s University\, Okayama\, 北区伊福町2-16-9\, 岡山市\, 岡山県\, 700-8516\, Japan
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260328T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260328T170000
DTSTAMP:20260304T230805Z
CREATED:20260304T213304Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T230805Z
UID:10004302-1774710000-1774717200@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Okayama JALT: Teaching Exchange and Symposium 2026
DESCRIPTION:Everyone is invited to share their teaching activities\, lessons\, or philosophies with us all at our March meeting. As opposed to one speaker at a time presenting at the front of the room\, we will have several concurrent mini-presentations (similar to a poster presentation session). Bring handouts (or links to handouts)\, to help spread your ideas like memes in the wind!If you’re interested\, sign up with the links/codes below\, so your name can be added to the list of presenters. If you formally apply\, you can get credit as being a presenter at a conference!How do you teach reported speech? How do you organize a lesson? How do you motivate a class of students? Come and share your thoughts on what makes your classes work!DATE: Saturday\, 28 March\, 15:00~17:00PLACE: Notre Dame Seishin University\, Joseph Hall International Communication Center (1st flr)If you simply wish to attend…https://forms.gle/w54HV865u57d9yLu5If you wish to PRESENT…https://forms.gle/NuawzikigRgKbBni6
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/okayama-jalt-teaching-exchange-and-symposium-2026/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jalt.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2026-03-28.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260221T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260221T170000
DTSTAMP:20260407T120021Z
CREATED:20260202T030348Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T120021Z
UID:10004271-1771686000-1771693200@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Okayama JALT Meeting: AI\, Education\, and the Unknown: A Guided Discussion for Today’s Teachers
DESCRIPTION:Artificial Intelligence is moving into classrooms faster than many educators anticipated\, and while its long‑term effects remain uncertain\, early signs suggest it could meaningfully influence how students learn\, create\, and interact with information. This session—led by a Security Engineer (Andrew Bulin\, GMO Flatt Security) and a Professor (Aubra Bulin\, Okayama University)—offers a grounded yet urgent exploration of the possibilities\, risks\, and unanswered questions surrounding AI’s expanding role in education. Rather than delivering fixed conclusions\, the talk will adapt dynamically to participants’ questions and concerns\, creating a space to examine emerging opportunities\, potential challenges around privacy\, equity\, and academic integrity\, and ways teachers might maintain a human‑centered learning environment amid rapid technological change. \n\n\n\nSign up to attend https://forms.gle/gM5qjEDiCFd3GrtJ6 \n\n\n\nTake care and see you there! \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nThe event will be held at Notre Dame Seishin University https://maps.app.goo.gl/uUmYvVjj28f7fnAA7
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/okayama-jalt-meeting-ai-in-language-learning/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260131T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260131T170000
DTSTAMP:20260119T143855Z
CREATED:20260119T143008Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T143855Z
UID:10004256-1769871600-1769878800@jalt.org
SUMMARY:"New Year\, New Connections" with Okayama JALT
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a lively afternoon of food\, drinks\, and interactive networking. Forget long speeches; come meet your officers through fun activities and help shape our vision for the year ahead. Whether you want to learn how to join our team or simply socialize with fellow educators\, come discover how you can get involved. Let’s toast to a fresh start in language teaching!We’ll have fun\, games\, and snacks! \n\n\n\nCOST: FREE for all \n\n\n\nDATE: Saturday\, 31 January\, 15:00~17:00 \n\n\n\nPLACE: NDSU Joseph Hall International Communication Center
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/new-year-new-connections-with-okayama-jalt/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260122T170000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20260122T180000
DTSTAMP:20260119T144046Z
CREATED:20260119T143810Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T144046Z
UID:10004257-1769101200-1769104800@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Okayama JALT's Annual General Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Okayama JALT’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held online this year\, on Thursday\, January 22\, at 17:00. At this meeting\, officers will present reports on their previous year’s work\, and together we will plan for 2026. All are welcome to attend. The event will be free.The meeting will take place via Zoom. Please contact Okayama JALT for the link.
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/okayama-jalts-annual-general-meeting/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20251115T140000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20251115T160000
DTSTAMP:20251014T070433Z
CREATED:20251014T065631Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251014T070433Z
UID:10004188-1763215200-1763222400@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Okayama JALT: Writing and Listening Ideas
DESCRIPTION:Special Event at Okayama University! \n\n\n\nIn association with Okayama University’s Institute for Promotion of Education and Campus Life (IPEC)\, we will hold an afternoon event at Okayama University. In addition to a teachers’ workshop (for Okadai employees) in the morning\, from noon there will be a Book Look with prominent publishers showing their latest ELT texts. All are invited. \n\n\n\nFrom 2:00\, JALT’s part of the program consists of Adam Brod\, who will talk about how freedom of topic affects students’ writing. At 3:00\, Naheen Madarbakus-Ring (via Zoom)will discuss how to more effectively use listening activities. We appreciate your signing up here by noon\, Friday\, 14 November. \n\n\n\nStacking the Deck In Favor of the Student: Assessing Student Writing (14:00)Adam BrodThis study examines how freedom of choice might affect student writing performance on a final in-class writing exam. The scores from two sets of writing classes are compared–two classes were allowed to choose the topic for their final writing exam\, and two classes were assigned a topic. The hypothesis that classes who had freedom of choice might score lower\, on average\, than the classes with assigned topics was upheld by the limited data of this study\, and these findings might lead to further implications for structuring writing classes. \n\n\n\nUsing Activities in L2 Listening Pedagogy (15:00)Naheen Madarbakus-RingThis workshop will focus on how teachers can integrate listening practices into lessons to facilitate learning. It is divided into four parts. First\, speaking and listening considerations are presented to discuss challenges for teachers and learners and how to overcome these. Second\, a pedagogic structure with listening strategies is outlined to present a systematic approach to listening. This part also helps teachers select suitable resources for listening practice and details methods to implement notetaking tasks. Third\, we break into rooms for attendees to plan lessons that integrate these listening components. Fourth\, groups share their lesson ideas and are given further suggestions to use in future lessons. This workshop will provide hands-on approaches to listening to help language teachers use listening pedagogy and notetaking approaches in the classroom. \n\n\n\n\nDATE: Saturday\, 15 November (special time)Book Look\, 12:00~14:00; JALT speakers\, 14:00~16:00\n\n\n\nPLACE: Okayama University General Education D Building (special place)\n\n\n\nCOST: FREE for all\n\n\n\n\nWe appreciate your signing up by noon\, Friday\, 14 November. \n\n\n\nThank you!
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/okayama-jalt-writing-and-listening-ideas/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jalt.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2025-11-15-2nd-try.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20251025T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20251025T170000
DTSTAMP:20251014T070512Z
CREATED:20251014T065213Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251014T070512Z
UID:10004187-1761404400-1761411600@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Okayama JALT: Music and Language Learning; Inclusiveness
DESCRIPTION:We welcome you to our October JALT meeting! \n\n\n\nConnecting Music and Language LearningDiana Sakata & Tomofumi Sakata (Notre Dame Seishin Junior High School & Yoshinaga Junior High School) \n\n\n\nWe will talk about integrating music into English language classrooms. Japanese students are not given enough opportunities to learn the essential oral mechanisms of English pronunciation. Because we ourselves learned these skills through vocal training in choral singing\, we were inspired to collaborate between music and English. We will describe the benefits of combining music and English classes\, and we hope to inspire both language and music teachers by sharing our ideas. \n\n\n\n…AND… \n\n\n\nJALT2025 Local Pre-Conference ShowcaseEvelyn HayashibaraEvelyn will discuss Creative and Inclusive Group Work in Language Learning. This presentation builds on previous research into inclusive\, learner-led English presentation courses. Drawing on student evaluations\, it highlights how multimodal\, group-based design empowers students—especially those with learning differences/difficulties—by allowing them to integrate their unique talents into collaborative presentations. The findings reveal improved language confidence\, stronger peer relationships\, and heightened engagement. Suggestions from students also inform ongoing course design\, showing how inclusive strategies can foster both autonomy and equity in language learning. \n\n\n\n• DATE: Saturday\, 25 October\, 15:00~17:00• PLACE: Notre Dame Seishin University\, Joseph Hall 2200JBWe need to give a list of attendees to the venue\, so we appreciate your signing up by noon\, Friday\, 24 October. \n\n\n\nThank you!
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/okayama-jalt-music-and-language-learning-inclusiveness/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jalt.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2025-10-25-NEWEST.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250920T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250920T170000
DTSTAMP:20250917T234740Z
CREATED:20250917T233956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T234740Z
UID:10004112-1758380400-1758387600@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Okayama JALT: Research Roundtable
DESCRIPTION:Come to our Research Roundtable! BYOR (Bring Your Own Research) to share with the group. Any research stage is ok\, from brainstorming to publication! Let’s answer each other’s questions\, give constructive feedback\, and encourage each other’s research endeavors! This workshop is also good for new or first-time educational researchers to interact with experienced academics in a relaxed setting. \n\n\n\nWe need to give a list of attendees to the venue\, so we appreciate your signing up here by noon\, Friday\, 19 September. \n\n\n\nNotre Dame Seishin UniversityJoseph Hall 2200JB2 Chome-16-9 Ifukucho\, Kita Ward\, Okayama\, 700-0013
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/okayama-jalt-research-roundtable/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250726T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250726T200000
DTSTAMP:20250708T083352Z
CREATED:20250708T080649Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250708T083352Z
UID:10004044-1753542000-1753560000@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Okayama JALT 2025/07 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Okayama JALT July Meeting\nOpen House/Business Meeting and Beer Garden!\nThis month we’ll start with a business meeting to talk about the state of the chapter (15:00). Everyone is welcome to join and let their ideas be heard. Later\, we’ll chill a bit with an open house to introduce visitors to Okayama JALT (16:00). There’ll be snacks! \nFinally\, we invite one and all to our beer garden event\, which will be held at Okayama Tenmaya Sky View Beer Terrace at 18:00! \nPlease sign up for these two events separately\, with links below. \nMeeting\n\n\n\nSaturday\, 26 July\, 15:00-17:00 \nNDSU Joseph Hall 2200JB (2nd floor) \nRSVP by Noon\, 24 July (URL or QR code) \nAdmission Free \nhttps://forms.gle/YAvKYASuww4qSS176 \n\nBeer Garden\nSaturday\, 26 July\, 18:00-20:00 \nTenmaya Sky View Beer Terrace \n￥4500 (女)/￥4800 (男) \nRSVP by Noon\, 24 July (URL or QR code) \nhttps://forms.gle/9T7iveYVw5824fdm6
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/14077/
LOCATION:Notre Dame Seishin Women’s University\, Okayama\, 北区伊福町2-16-9\, 岡山市\, 岡山県\, 700-8516\, Japan
CATEGORIES:Okayama
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jalt.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/5C0E1948-8B24-4D0F-9E8D-A97E3FF6DAB2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Okayama Chapter":MAILTO:okayamajalt@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250614T130000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250614T150000
DTSTAMP:20250820T034719Z
CREATED:20250820T034346Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T034719Z
UID:10004087-1749906000-1749913200@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Okayama JALT June Meeting with David Paul
DESCRIPTION:Okayama JALT June Meeting David Paul\, Language Teaching ProfessionalsTwo presentations:(1) Motivating Low-level Learners to Communicate(2) Building up Students’ Ability to Discuss a Wide Range of Topics(1) We will look at some ideas for motivating low-level students to speak out. We will focus on how to engage and motivate students through puzzles\, building anticipation\, rooting the syllabus in familiar language and patterns\, and personalization.(2) David Paul has a new course\, Discussion Skills\, which is effective in building up students’ ability to discuss a wide range of topics. The course\, designed for high school\, university and adults\, has topics such as friends\, family\, work\, travel\, education\, gender issues\, politics\, and more.
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/okayama-jalt-june-meeting-with-david-paul/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250614T130000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250614T150000
DTSTAMP:20250820T041101Z
CREATED:20250616T135003Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T041101Z
UID:10000023-1749906000-1749913200@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Motivating low-level learners to communicate / Building up all students' ability to discuss a wide range of topics
DESCRIPTION:David Paul \nThis presentation will be aimed at teachers of teenagers\, college students and adults. The first part of the presentation will look at some ideas for motivating low-level students to speak out. The second part will look at how to build all students’ ability to have discussions. With low-level students\, the presentation will focus on how to engage and motivate students through puzzles\, building anticipation\, rooting the syllabus in familiar language and patterns\, and personalization. In the second part of the presentation\, David Paul will introduce his new course\, ‘ Discussion Skills’\, and show how it is effective in building up students’ ability to discuss a wide range of topics. The course is designed for high school\, university and adults. Book 1 is appropriate for lower intermediate students and has topics such as friend\, family\, the past\, work and travel. Book2 is appropriate for upper intermediate students and has pics such as education\, history\, women in society\, politics and economics. The course is a new edition of ‘Communication Strategies’\, though it has been changed quite a bit and lots of digital components have been added. 
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/motivating-low-level-learners-to-communicate-building-up-all-students-ability-to-discuss-a-wide-range-of-topics/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250322T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250322T170000
DTSTAMP:20250820T035515Z
CREATED:20250617T141843Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T035515Z
UID:10003928-1742655600-1742662800@jalt.org
SUMMARY:How to be better at navigating intercultural communication!\, March Chapter Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Lynne Murphy (Shimane University Faculty of Medicine\, Assistant Professor) \nHow to be better at navigating intercultural communication! \nby Lynne Murphy (Shimane University Faculty of Medicine\, Assistant Professor) \nWould you like to know more about the influence of cultural factors? Are you keen to be better at navigating intercultural communication? If so\, this presentation is for you! With a 20+ year-long career as an educator\, interculturalist\, and Japanese language connoisseur\, Lynne has navigated many intercultural communicative situations. “Communication of the intercultural kind is interesting because unique observations and alternative insights are more likely. However\, ‘interesting’ can quickly become ‘challenging’ when participants are not sufficiently knowledgeable about the influence of cultural factors.” From resources such as The Culture Map and The Culture Factor\, you will learn about contrasting value and behavioral dimensions across cultures\, and about their impact on our intercultural communication. \nLocation \nNotre Dame Seishin\, Trinity Hall\, 5F\, Room 53 \nSign-up Required \nOur venue requires us to give a guest list before the event.  If you are coming\, please sign up before Friday\, March 21st https://forms.gle/YAvKYASuww4qSS176  \nWe will also be having a social gathering after the event. If you would like to take part\, please get in touch.  
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/how-to-be-better-at-navigating-intercultural-communication-march-chapter-meeting/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250222T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250222T170000
DTSTAMP:20250820T035515Z
CREATED:20250617T141906Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T035515Z
UID:10003932-1740236400-1740243600@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Research and Teaching Showcase (Poster Presentations)
DESCRIPTION:We will be hosting presentations about teaching and research into language learning. \nThis Saturday! Still time to sign up\, as presenter or attender! \nPoster Presenter Sign-Up: https://buff.ly/3WFP51G \nAttendee Sign-Up: https://buff.ly/3PZwtGi \n(Please note that we need to submit a participant list to NDSU by Friday\, Feb 21. Please help by signing up as an attendee.) \n  \nPresenters include; \nPeter Burden – Teachers Metaphors and Evaluation in Japanese Tertiary Education \nEvelyn Hayashibara – Creative Group Work in Language Learning \nTony Walsh – Promoting Study Abroad Programs
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/research-and-teaching-showcase-poster-presentations/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250125T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20250125T190000
DTSTAMP:20250618T000034Z
CREATED:20250617T140322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250618T000034Z
UID:10003873-1737817200-1737831600@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Okayama JALT AGM and New Year Soiree
DESCRIPTION:We are having an AGM and New Year Soiree.  \nAGM \nAll members are welcome to attend the AGM and give their opinions about the Chapter.  We will hear the plans of the new officers.  It’s a great way to learn more about the Chapter and how to make it better…together! \nTime and Location: 3-5pm\, Notre Dame Seishin University\, Trinity Hall\, 5th floor room 53 \nSIGN-UP \nWe need to give a list for the AGM to Notre Dame Seishin University.  So\, if you want to attend the AGM\, please sign up by Friday\, January 24th. \nFORM: https://forms.gle/V21MDrknDYgBi1Qm6 \nIf there is a special request\, we can arrange a limited hybrid participation at the AGM. \nNew Year Soiree \nWhy not come along and meet the officers and other members. We will have a very informal and relaxed get-together at Kamp. Come along share a coffee or drink and chat with us!  We are looking forward to seeing you there! \nTime and Location: 5:30-7pm\, Kamp Backpackers Hostel and Cafe\, Hokancho \nAny queries\, please write on the sign-up form.  \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/okayama-jalt-agm-and-new-year-soiree/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20241221T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20241221T170000
DTSTAMP:20250820T035635Z
CREATED:20250616T154631Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T035635Z
UID:10003800-1734793200-1734800400@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Teaching Exchange and Symposium
DESCRIPTION:Tim Cleminson\, Heather Suzuki\, Aubra Bulin\, Roger Ferrari\, Jason Lowes\, Caleb Prichard \n\nEveryone is invited to share their teaching activities\, lessons\, or philosophies with us all at our December meeting. As opposed to one speaker at a time presenting at the front of the room\, we will have several concurrent mini-presentations (similar to a poster presentation session). Bring handouts (or links to handouts) if you like\, to help spread your ideas like memes in the wind!\nAnyone interested in participating is encouraged to sign up here or with the QR code below\, or to contact Jason Lowes or Tim Cleminson so your name can be added to the list of presenters. If you formally apply\, you can get credit as being a presenter at a conference!\nHow do you teach reported speech? How do you organize a lesson? How do you motivate a class of students? Come and share your thoughts on what makes your classes work!
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/teaching-exchange-and-symposium/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20241119T180000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20241119T200000
DTSTAMP:20250820T035635Z
CREATED:20250616T154617Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T035635Z
UID:10003780-1732039200-1732046400@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Fostering creativity and interest in language classrooms: Strategies for engaging learners
DESCRIPTION:Tan Bee Tin (University of Aukland) \nLANGUAGE LEARNING WORKSHOP (face-to-face\, live streamed section) \nLearn how to \n\nFoster creativity\nMotivate learners\nSupport playfulness\nEncourage exploration\n\nWORKSHOP INFO \nIn this workshop\, drawing on my two decades of experience\, I will explore the concepts of ‘creativity’ and ‘interest’ in the context of language teaching. \nPART 1 \nThe first part will focus on creativity\, exploring its meaning within the field of language teaching and learning. I will introduce key principles that educators can use to foster creative and playful language use among learners. Through practical demonstrations\, I will showcase activities and techniques designed to encourage students to experiment with language and transform it as they create new meanings. \n  \nPART 2 \nIn the second part\, we will expand on creativity by integrating research on the concept of interest. Among the many perspectives used to understand students’ complex language learning behaviors\, ‘interest’ is a crucial element for deeper\, more meaningful learning. It is a pedagogically significant concept that merits careful discussion. will examine the role of interest in language teaching and learning\, its importance\, and how it complements creative language instruction. Our discussion will address several key components of language teaching—topics\, texts\, tasks\, and talk—and how creativity and interest work together to enhance students’ engagement and language learning through these elements. \n  \nPRESENTER BIO \nTan Bee Tin is Associate Professor in Applied Linguistics and Language Teaching at the School of Cultures\, Languages and Linguistics (the University of Auckland\, New Zealand). \n  \nShe has a strong interest in language education in Asia and has conducted research in various Asian contexts (e.g. Nepal\, Indonesia\, Myanmar). She has published in the areas of language teacher education\, language creativity\, and language learning\, the role of interest in language learning\, and teaching English in peripheral contexts. \n  \nShe is the author of ‘Unpacking Creativity for Language Teaching’ (published by Routledge\, 2022) and ‘Stimulating Student Interest in Language Learning: Theory\, Research and Practice’ (published by Palgrave MacMillan\, 2016).
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/fostering-creativity-and-interest-in-language-classrooms-strategies-for-engaging-learners/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20241026T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20241026T170000
DTSTAMP:20250820T035635Z
CREATED:20250616T154607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T035635Z
UID:10003765-1729954800-1729962000@jalt.org
SUMMARY:JALT2024 Pre-presentations: Chapter Members Share their Research
DESCRIPTION:Gavin Thomas\, Teresa Stockwell\, Aubra Bulin\, Heather Suzuki \nJALT2024 Pre-presentations!\nCome see some of what’s in store in Shizuoka \nEmpowering Educators: Disability Rights and Reality in Japan\nTeresa Stockwell\, Gavin Thomas\nThis presentation explores the experiences of educators with disabilities in Japan\, examining both progress and ongoing challenges. \nExamining Accommodations for Learner Diversity With UDL\nHeather Suzuki\nThis presentation discusses accommodations made by Japanese university English teachers for diverse learners including those with disabilities or special learning needs. \nI Am Not a Robot: Teaching Soft Skills in Language Classes\nAubra Bulin\nIn the age of GenAI\, what can teachers do to solidify their place in education? In this session\, language teachers will reaffirm their roles by considering the importance of teaching soft skills. \n  \nPostponed for a future date: Boosting Student Speaking Success with Positive Self-Talk \nFinding ways to boost student speaking ability remains a burning issue in Japan. I hope you will join me in this session where I will explore the potential of positive self-talk to improve students’ speaking performance. Since self-talk can mediate students’ emotions and performance during tasks (Tod et al.\, 2011)\, it can provide insights into students’ experiences during stressful situations such as speech assessments. In the first part of this presentation\, I will discuss the research findings from an experimental study on the effect of positive self-talk on university students’ speaking performance. Then in the second interactive part of the presentation\, we will explore methods for promoting positive self-talk in speaking tasks.
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/jalt2024-pre-presentations-chapter-members-share-their-research/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240720T180000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240720T180000
DTSTAMP:20250820T035635Z
CREATED:20250616T154617Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T035635Z
UID:10003779-1721498400-1721498400@jalt.org
SUMMARY:July Social Get-Together
DESCRIPTION:This is a social event to help our members stay connected and happy. We will get together to reconnect\, talk about our work and have some fun. \nPlease make sure you sign up on the form on our Facebook page.
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/july-social-get-together/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240615T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240615T150000
DTSTAMP:20250820T035635Z
CREATED:20250616T154521Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T035635Z
UID:10003695-1718463600-1718463600@jalt.org
SUMMARY:English as Elective Course + Engaging Students with Questions
DESCRIPTION:Peter Burden\, Jason Lowes \nPeter Burden  \nOkayama Shoka University “What’s Going On?” What Happens When English Becomes an Elective Subject  \nWhile English has long been seen as important to enable people to communicate via the global lingua franca\, and the Japanese government has long promoted the notion of “global citizens”\, at least one university in Okayama has made English an elective subject among a menu of foreign languages. This has led to a dramatic shift in the number of students in my classes which surprised me. Student attitudes towards English are often stored as episodic memories\, and a survey administered with 120 students sought a picture of retrospective motivation to study English during high school. While results may appear intuitive to some\, there are many interesting insights\, useful as a springboard to discussion about the role of English in your institution and society. \nJason Lowes  \nFukuyama University “Are they getting this?”: Using questions to effectively assess understanding and to improve student engagement  \nIt is a truism that the most effective way to learn something new is to connect it to something already known. As teachers\, how can we know what knowledge each student brings to each lesson? Similarly\, after carefully explaining some point or leading a class through a text\, how can a teacher determine whether students are ‘getting it’? The answer to these two questions is\, obviously\, to ask them. This\, in turn\, creates several more questions: How should the teacher ask?\, What should the teacher ask?\, and When should the teacher ask? This presentation will explore possible answers to each of these questions and more. There will be opportunities for the participants to experience various questioning formats and offer their own opinions and answers.
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/english-as-elective-course-engaging-students-with-questions/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240512T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240512T170000
DTSTAMP:20250820T035635Z
CREATED:20250616T154457Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T035635Z
UID:10003666-1715526000-1715533200@jalt.org
SUMMARY:小学校英語教員の専門能力開発ニーズ Professional Development Needs of Elementary School Teachers of
DESCRIPTION:Monica HAMCIUC and Yoko KUSUMOTO \nSIGN UP FOR ZOOMLINKリンクに登録する \nhttps://tinyurl.com/OKJALT-0923 \nInformation about the event follows below: \nSection 1 – Introduction to Professional Development Needs \nResearch from literature review\, interviews\, and a nationwide survey explores the professional needs and experiences of elementary school teachers of English. \n日本の小学校英語教員の専門能力開発ニーズと経験について、文献調査、個別インタビュー、全国調査をもとに紹介する。 \nSection 2 – Active Training Session \nShort training session with pronunciation training exercises and small talk activities. \nAttendees can participate and think about how to design class activities. \n発音トレーニングやスモールトークを取り入れた短いトレーニングセッションを行う。参加者は、活動に参加するとともに、自身のクラスで同様の活動をデザインする方法について考える \nSection 3 – Discussion and Networking \nA chance to share concerns or ideas related to teaching English. A great opportunity to network for those teaching English and researching the field. \n小学校での英語教育や英語教師養成に関する悩みやアイデアを共有する機会を提供する。また、日本の英語教育や英語研修について研究している方々にとっても、ネットワークを広げる絶好の機会となることが期待される
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/%e5%b0%8f%e5%ad%a6%e6%a0%a1%e8%8b%b1%e8%aa%9e%e6%95%99%e5%93%a1%e3%81%ae%e5%b0%82%e9%96%80%e8%83%bd%e5%8a%9b%e9%96%8b%e7%99%ba%e3%83%8b%e3%83%bc%e3%82%ba-professional-development-needs-of-elementary-s/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240420T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240420T170000
DTSTAMP:20250820T035635Z
CREATED:20250616T154445Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T035635Z
UID:10003649-1713625200-1713632400@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Poster Sharing Extravaganza
DESCRIPTION:Tim Cleminson\, Jason Lowes\, Heather Suzuki\, Evelyn Hayashibara \nJoin us at our April meeting\, where we will have poster presentations from local teachers\, sharing their ideas–data-based research\, lesson ideas\, or something else altogether–for informal perusal and discussion. We will have snacks and drinks\, too\, so relax with us while we share what we know and love about teaching.
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/poster-sharing-extravaganza/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240316T103000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240316T130000
DTSTAMP:20250618T000204Z
CREATED:20250616T154627Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250618T000204Z
UID:10003792-1710585000-1710594000@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Spring Hike and Hanami
DESCRIPTION:𝗢𝗸𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝗝𝗔𝗟𝗧 ‘𝗕𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗯𝘄𝗲𝗯𝘀 𝗢𝘂𝘁’ 𝗛𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮4 \n𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲:            March\, 16th  10:30~13:00 (Bus Home) 10:30~15:00 (Round trip hike) \n𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:     Mount Misao to Sougenji Temple\n𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴:       Behind baseball grounds\, by Gokokujinjya shrine https://maps.app.goo.gl/FNLLoBvnY4ktn7X96 \n𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗺:           Catch tram to Higashiyama Terminal then walk to Gokokujinja \n𝗕𝗮𝗱 𝗪𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿: 𝗜𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗯𝗮𝗱 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿\, 𝘄𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗹 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝗳𝗲 𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲. \n𝗕𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗰 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻\nWe will meet at the parking just above the baseball diamonds.  We will walk to Sougenji temple.  There is a famous cherry tree there by a lake.  It may be a little early\, but it will be a nice walk. It’s about a 4km hike to the temple and 4km back. \n  \nOne-Way      4km \nRound trip    8km \n  \nOn the way home\, you can take a bus which is 10 minutes back to the car park or 25 mins to Okayama station.  Or you could turn around and walk back.  It depends how genki you feel.  \n𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴\nBring a warm coat\, proper walking shoes with grips\, drink and snacks.
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/spring-hike-and-hanami/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240224T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240224T170000
DTSTAMP:20250618T000208Z
CREATED:20250616T154415Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250618T000208Z
UID:10003600-1708786800-1708794000@jalt.org
SUMMARY:February Chapter Meeting: Teaching disabled students and all about ALS
DESCRIPTION:Gavin Thomas \nGavin Thomas Presents \nIf you have a disabled student in your class\, you have to change your teaching style to better suit that student. I will show two aspects of my teaching style and my reasons for doing these. Then I’ll talk about how I adapted my approach to the challenge of a disabled student. \nFollowing this\, we will have a short break\, and then I’ll show you a presentation about my approach to this disease I do twice a year at Kawasaki Fukushi University. \nDATE: Saturday\, 24 Feb\, 15:00~17:00\nPLACE: Notre Dame Seishin University\, Joseph Hall 1202JA (2F)\nCOST: JALT members free; guests ¥1000
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/february-chapter-meeting-teaching-disabled-students-and-all-about-als/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240120T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20240120T190000
DTSTAMP:20250618T000220Z
CREATED:20250616T154400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250618T000220Z
UID:10003589-1705762800-1705777200@jalt.org
SUMMARY:AGM and New Year Welcome Party
DESCRIPTION:OFFICER MEETING\nFrom 15:00 to 17:00 JALT officers will meet at NDSU to discuss the year’s plans and introduce new officers. Everyone is invited to come along and see some of the inner workings of JALT Okayama. \nNEW YEAR SOIREE\nStarting at 17:00 we invite all JALT members and friends to come for an informal social gathering at Kamp. Charge is free in general\, although there may be a one-drink minimum at the venue.
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/agm-and-new-year-welcome-party/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20231216T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20231216T150000
DTSTAMP:20250618T000224Z
CREATED:20250616T154337Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250618T000224Z
UID:10003552-1702738800-1702738800@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Peachy Speechy 2023 + Bonenkai
DESCRIPTION:At “world famous” local backpackers/cafe KAMP! \nPresenters contribute short\, visually oriented presentations for 6 to 8 minutes on a topic important to them: research\, philosophy of teaching\, etc. (Hopefully your presentation will relate somehow to Japan\, Okayama\, and/or language teaching/learning\, but it’s not a strict requirement.) Q&A after each presentation\, the length of which depends on how many presenters we have overall. \nAfter this event we will have our annual year-end gathering at a local eatery-drinkery. Details TBA.
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/peachy-speechy-2023-bonenkai/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20231118T150000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20231118T150000
DTSTAMP:20250618T000232Z
CREATED:20250616T154337Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250618T000232Z
UID:10003550-1700319600-1700319600@jalt.org
SUMMARY:Study Abroad + Inclusive Education for Minorities
DESCRIPTION:Nyein Su Hlaing\, Tony Walsh \nStudy Abroad and International Fieldwork \nTony Walsh\, Fukuchiyama University\, Kyoto \nThis presentation provides insights into two pilot courses involving students studying abroad in Australia (university students) and Canada (junior high school students). We discuss homestay and dormitory living\, along with before/after reflections of students. We will also focus on hits and misses in making courses preparing students for study abroad. Finally\, we look at an international fieldwork course. Students learn about multiculturalism\, how to celebrate diversity\, and how to address sensitive issues through exchange practices with institutions and industries. This experience can encourage social consciousness and leadership. Conceptualising foreign issues can help open perspectives not only internationally but in rural communities of Japan. \nEqual and Inclusive Learning Opportunities for Linguistic and Ethnic Minority Children Through Mother Tongue Based Education and Heritage Language Education \nNyein Su Hlaing\, Okayama University postgraduate researcher \nFor multicultural societies\, securing equal opportunities and rights for all groups is a challenge. My country\, Myanmar\, is rich in ethnic diversity\, but there is a lack of equal rights\, especially in education. One great need for equal educational opportunities is to eliminate language barriers. Heritage language education (HLE) and mother-tongue based education (MTB) are key factors in meeting this need. My presentation will discuss the importance of HLE and MTB\, not only in Myanmar but in other countries as well\, including Japan. It is hoped that this study will raise awareness of minorities’ languages and their unique cultures and\, additionally\, will lead to establishing equal learning atmospheres that can ensure cultivation of qualified human resources.
URL:https://jalt.org/event/okayama/study-abroad-inclusive-education-for-minorities/
CATEGORIES:Okayama
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR