JALT2025 - Tokyo

Publish or perish in Japan? Barriers and pathways for female ETL professionals

Oct 31, 2025, 5:10 PM

30m

National Olympics Memorial Youth Center / 国立オリンピック記念青少年総合センター

Research-oriented Presentation (30-minutes) Teacher and Professional Development Room 413

Speaker

Julia Kimura (Mukogawa Women's University)

Description

This study examines the academic productivity of female ELT professionals in Japan, identifying enablers and barriers. Interviews with nine participants reveal that caregiving, limited mentorship, and lack of networking hinder productivity, while collaboration and intrinsic motivation support it. The Matthew Effect worsens disparities. The study underscores structural challenges and advocates for institutional awareness, mentorship, and stronger support networks to foster equity in academic productivity.

Summary

This study examines the academic productivity of female ELT professionals in Japan, identifying enablers and barriers. Interviews with nine participants reveal that caregiving, limited mentorship, and lack of networking hinder productivity, while collaboration and intrinsic motivation support it. The Matthew Effect worsens disparities. The study underscores structural challenges and advocates for institutional awareness, mentorship, and stronger support networks to foster equity in academic productivity.