JALT2025 - Tokyo

A Critical Realist Critique of TEE Policy Enactment Research in Japan

Nov 2, 2025, 1:45 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) Sociocultural Linguistics and Pragmatics Room 410

Speaker

Takeshi Kajigaya (International Christian University / University of British Columbia)

Description

This presentation critically examines language policy and planning (LPP) studies in Japan, focusing on the enactment of Teaching English in English (TEE) policy at JHS/SHS. Past research has emphasized individual factors and teacher agency, while not always examining contextual elements (e.g., budget or the Course of Study’s legal status) thoroughly. Using Critical Realism and empirical evidence, I argue that clarifying epistemological standpoints and foregrounding context is essential for a rigorous analysis of LPP enactment.

Summary

This presentation critically examines language policy and planning (LPP) studies in Japan, focusing on the enactment of Teaching English in English (TEE) policy at JHS/SHS. Past research has emphasized individual factors and teacher agency, while not always examining contextual elements (e.g., budget or the Course of Study’s legal status) thoroughly. Using Critical Realism and empirical evidence, I argue that clarifying epistemological standpoints and foregrounding context is essential for a rigorous analysis of LPP enactment.