From "Konnichiwa" to Confidence: Lessons from Teaching Japanese Students 🌏
Ever found yourself in a virtual classroom with a polite bow and a shy "Hello, Sensei"? That was me, an English-speaking educator stepping into the world of Japanese learners, where silence often speaks louder than words, and respect is wrapped in every sentence. What started as "just another ESL job" became one of the most enriching chapters in my teaching journey. Teaching Japanese students wasn't just about grammar or pronunciation; it was about fostering connections , understanding culture , and building confidence across borders . I’ve taught learners from many parts of the world, but there’s something beautifully distinct about working with Japanese students. You quickly learn that teaching here goes beyond lesson plans; it’s about emotional intelligence, patience, and cultural awareness. ✅ Respect is non-negotiable. From bowing to saying "arigatou gozaimasu" at the end of every session, my students reminded me that gratitude is a daily l...