A Sociocultural Approach and Globalisation-related Topics in Teaching English in Japan

Abstract

AbstractIn general the level of proficiency of English in Japan is not very high. The causes may be manifold and complex but one of them is certainly the grammar-translation method used in teaching English. In this method, most of class time is spent on word-by-word translation of English texts into Japanese. This paper presents a preliminary and exploratory study of a sociocultural approach and globalisation-related topics which could complement the grammar-translation method. It also provides a descriptive account of the lessons. The sociocultural approach is mostly based on social constructivism, to which Lev Vygotsky contributed significantly. The learning of content, in this case about globalisation, as well as language comes under content and language integrated learning (CLIL). The study was conducted in six English communication classes at Nagoya University, a top national university. A total of 109 undergraduates participated. The results indicate that the sociocultural approach motivates the students to learn English and seek for higher communicative skills and they perceive globalisation-related topics as relevant to the ability to function in intercultural contexts.