TEFL in Japan: an interview with a teacher who has moved from language schools to universities

Have you ever considered teaching in Japan?  Here, teflhub interviews Joel, an American teacher who has been in Japan for years and in that time has moved from language schools to universities. We discuss some of the most common questions raised about life for TEFL teachers in this fantastic country over a meal of yakiniku (Korean barbeque) in Shibuya, a vibrant district in Tokyo.

1. What drew you to Japan?

I knew I wanted to be a teacher, but I also liked traveling and learning about other cultures. When I heard about the opportunity to do both in Japan, I knew it would be a good fit.

2. Did you experience “culture shock” when you arrived in Japan at some point?

I probably experienced culture shock after about 1 month in Japan, when the excitement of being here started to wear off. That's when you need to adjust to things that are not like what you are used to back home.

3. If so, how did you get over it?

I tried to learn the language and meet people. Try to make friends with people in the new culture, and find people (both locals and foreigners) who are similar to you so you don't feel so isolated. Don't disconnect from your own culture where you come from, but also immerse yourself in your new culture so it feels more comfortable.

4. What are the challenges of teaching in Japan?

As a language teacher, your job is to get your students speaking, but Japanese people are often reserved and so very reluctant to speak, even if they know the correct answer. This can be frustrating.

5. You’ve moved into tertiary education here, how does it compare to teaching at a language school?

There are many differences: Class size (language school= 4, universities= 20-40), class time (languae school=45 minutes, universities=90 minutes), student demographics (language school= anyone is possible, universities= 18-21 year olds), pay (university is better), holidays (university is better), methodology (A language school will probably want you teach using the school's system, universities are very flexible and trust you to teach however you feel is best).

6. Any tips on boosting your career prospects as a TEFL teacher?

A Master's degree in TESOL will boost your job prospects tremendously. Check teaching websites to find job opportunities. Once you get a job, network with other teachers and you will soon hear about other opportunities.

7. What event or course do you feel has really helped your career along?

You cannot get a university teaching position in Japan without a Master's degree, and so earning my Master's degree greatly improved my job prospects, my salary, my teaching hours, and my job satisfaction.

8. When you go home to the USA, what do you miss about Japan?

I love Japanese food, and there is no place to find it as good as it is in Japan. I also miss the excellent transportation system in Tokyo where I never need to drive a car. Customer service is superb in Japan. It is fun to be in a foreign country and culture.

9. Where do you see yourself in 5 year’s time?

Still working part-time at several different universities in Tokyo.

10. Do you have any hints on how to save money when living in Japan?

If you don't mind buying used things from other people, you can fully furnish your apartment by buying from people who are leaving the country. Craigslist.com is the place to buy used goods, or you can go a “recycle shop” that also sells used items. Grocery stores sell items at a reduced rate when they are near their expiry date, so look for the stickers that say “30% off” etc. Later in the evening many fresh food items go on sale. 100 yen shops sell many useful things, but the quality is not always very good so it can be better to pay more for something you want to last a long time.