Reading Strategies and Classroom Instruction
AATJ’s JOINT online professional development program offered “Reading Strategies and Classroom Instruction” in Spring 2013. The course aimed to help participants (a) deepen their understanding of reading strategies and (b) better implement reading strategies in their own teaching. This course utilized background readings and some existing materials as examples, but hands-on experience was emphasized, and course participants created their own sets of reading activities to be used in their classes. Participants worked on assigned readings and lectures independently, held online videoconference discussions in small groups, kept a reflection journal, and worked collaboratively in pairs to develop materials. Assignments and evaluations were designed to accommodate the differing needs of those who are enrolled in the course. Participants were be asked for permission to share the materials they create (via the AATJ website) with the broader Japanese language education community after the end of the course. Both native and non-native speakers of Japanese were invited to enroll.
The course was conducted between February 4 and March 24, 2013 (six weeks of class plus one week of orientation and technology familiarization).
Instructors: Hisae Fujiwara (University of California, San Diego); Etsuko Takahashi (Wesleyan University).
Required Language Background for Participants: Applicants were asked to take an online Japanese proficiency level self-assessment test, and acceptance into the course was based in part on the results of the assessment.
Required Technical Background for Participants: Participants were familiar with basic Internet features such as looking for information, reading online materials, downloading materials, sending and receiving emails, and online chatting. Experience with using Skype (voice and/or webcam) and a collaborative writing tool such as Google Docs or wiki were a plus. A fast Internet connection (Ethernet or wireless) was needed to work on various online activities; dial-up modem connection is not recommended. Participants who did not have a webcam and microphone built into their computers needed to purchase one for course participation (the cost for this equipment: usually about $25).
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For further information, write to Susan.Schmidt@colorado.edu
* JOINT program courses can be offered at a low fee thanks to the support of several organizations: the Japan Foundation, the Toshiba International Foundation, the Shoyu Club, and the US-Japan Foundation.
