Paper short abstract:

This presentation focuses on how to meet adult learners' needs in general Japanese courses in private schools. They usually study Japanese as a hobby and hope to develop communication skills. What course design and classroom activities suitable for them? A case in Poland will be presented.

Paper long abstract:

Japanese Language School was established in 1994 by The Museum of Japanese Art and Technology Manggha in Krakow, Poland. At the beginning the majority of participants of Japanese language courses consisted of high school and college students, but currently working adults cover more than half of the enrolled. Those students dedicate their free time to study Japanese after work on midweek days or on Saturdays, yet none of them does it strictly because of the professional reasons. So what are their motivations and expectations? What significance does it have for them to study such language as Japanese? And how does it influence language course design, classroom activities and our work as Japanese teachers?

Based on the results of individual interviews conducted with students we learnt that in most cases studying Japanese was a consequence of the already existing interest in Japan and Japanese culture. We also learnt that great majority of the students wish to develop mostly their communication skills and speaking abilities.

This presentation provides both the detailed information on the results of the survey, as well as the examples of the course and lesson planning with special focus on:

1. Course design based on "Can-do" statements on respective levels

2. Writing and speaking "Can-do" assessment tests in practice

3. Classroom activities allowing students to use Japanese