With the aim of becoming one of the leading organizations empowering lifelong communicative English and Japanese skills for all individuals aged 5 and above, the KyoKan Support Network focuses on making partnerships and establishing free Language Input Platforms for continuous English and Japanese language practice, starting in May 2025. These interactive language practice programs provide increased exposure to the target language, improve listening and speaking, support social cohesion, and create better career opportunities.

 

The curriculum and lessons are designed to support learners of Japanese language at the beginner level, and English at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels—covering English for elementary, middle, and high school students, as well as general, technical, and business English. Below is the detailed course information:

 

Program name: Language Input Platforms (LIPs)- for continuous English and Japanese language practice.

Location or place: Mie Citizen Exchange Centre, Tsu Station Asto Building, 3rd Floor

Schedule: Wednesdays from 17:30 to 19:00, and Saturdays from 13:30 to 15:00, starting May 7th, 2025.

 

Program’s objectives and measurement methods

 

1. Each participant will learn and use at least 50 new words and phrases relevant to daily communication in a month.

• Measurement: Participants will maintain vocabulary journals. Instructors will assess correct usage of vocabulary in discussions.

 

2. Each participant will engage in at least one role-play conversation per week using newly learned vocabulary and expressions.

• Measurement: Teachers will provide weekly feedback per participant on pronunciation, coherence, and vocabulary usage. Peer feedback is also encouraged.

 

3. At least 80% of registered participants will attend a minimum of 5 out of 8 sessions each month.

• Measurement: Attendance will be tracked using an attendance sheet.

 

4. At least 60% of Japanese participants learning English will engage with native or fluent English speakers. Similarly, foreign participants will be encouraged to interact with Japanese speakers.

• Measurement: Instructors will monitor and document participant interactions with native/fluent speakers.

 

5. All participants will receive individual reflection sheets to track their progress. At least 70% will report increased confidence in everyday communication.

• Measurement: Self-assessment surveys will be conducted before and after the course (within three months). Participants will record short speaking samples at the beginning, middle, and end to track progress.

 

Program Design and Support Activities

(curriculum and materials development)

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1. To develop English and Japanese curricula for beginner, intermediate, and advanced learners (including general, technical, and business English).

2. To prepare learning materials such as vocabulary journals, reflection sheets, attendance tracking sheets, engagement logs, and weekly class plans.

3. To train staff and volunteers to support learners in a patient and friendly manner using one-on-one and group approaches, tailored to learner needs.

4. To promote the program through flyers, social media, school networks, community boards, and offering trial sessions to attract potential participants.

5. To partner with local and national educational institutions, businesses, and organizations such as the Mie International Exchange Foundation (MIEF), for support, guidance, and the exchange of research and best practices.

6. To set up a regular reporting and feedback system through weekly teacher-learner meetings and monthly reviews, and to document success stories and collect participant testimonials for promotion and future support.

7. To seek funding or sponsorships from local governments, educational institutions, companies, businesses and organizations to ensure sustainability and growth of the program.