2025 CUE SIG Conference with BizCom SIG and PGL

Sep 13, 2025, 9:30 AM → Sep 14, 2025, 4:45 PM Asia/Tokyo

Main Building 2nd floor (Hitotsubashi University)

Frederick Bacala (Yokohama City University), Gavin O'Neill (Hitotsubashi Univeristy), Glen Hill, Saeko Ujiie (SBF Consulting LLC), Zane Ritchie (Josai University)

- Bridging Divides: Japan’s Role in Language, Commerce, and Peace

During these days of strained international relations and breakdowns in long standing political and business relationships, this year’s conference brings an exciting collaboration among three organizations involved in tertiary education (CUE), business communication (BizCom), and international peace (PGL). The theme of this conference asks how universities can foster experts in international communication who can tend to peaceful international relations and take their place as captains of industry. Experts in language and communication research and instruction are invited to share their vision for modern international and business communication.

Early Registration is underway! Please register and pay before September 12th (to make it easier to register, 1st: create an Indico account (click on top right of your screen to create an Indico account), then 2nd: click on the register button below and fill out the information and pay.) We will also have on-site registration for a slightly higher fee, so try to register early!

Conference scheduling has been completed! Click on the Timetable link on the left to see the schedule. 

Looking for Hotels?  Here is a link to hotels close by: https://tinyurl.com/hitotsubashihotels

Conference Dinner - Seven tickets remaining! Reserve a ticket while they're still available.  Please look at the 2025 CUE Conference Dinner 1 flyer in the attachments section and register in the registration section below!

2025 CUE Conference Dinner 1.pdf

A Thank You to our Sponsors

Call for Proceedings Papers 2025 conference.pdf

Conference 1.pdf

Conference Details and Plenaries.pdf

Conference Handout Final Publish.pdf

Daily Presentation Sessions.pdf

How to get to Building and Places for Food

Important Note for Overseas Participants

Information for Presenters.pdf

Sept 2025 CUE SIG Workshop.png

Sat, September 13

9:30 AM → 9:45 AM Ceremony: Room 26 Opening Ceremony

Convener: Frederick Bacala (JALT)

9:45 AM → 10:40 AM Plenary 1 Room 26: Interdisciplinary research in Business English: Insights from experts and implications for ESP teacher professional development

Convener: Zuocheng Zhang

9:45 AM Interdisciplinary research in Business English: Insights from experts and implications for ESP teacher professional development

Business English is often described as an interdisciplinary field of research. In this talk, I will draw on interviews with leading researchers in the field and an analysis of their publications to discuss characteristics of interdisciplinarity in Business English research. I will elaborate on the implications of these characteristics for Business English teachers in researching language use in business, designing classroom teaching and collaborating with subject specialists and industry partners.

Speaker: Zuocheng Zhang

Plenary 1 26.docx

10:50 AM → 11:15 AM Saturday 1 Room 22: Student Attitudes Toward AI and English Listening Practice

Convener: Jerry Johnston (Kwansei Gakuin University)

10:50 AM Student Attitudes toward AI and English Listening Practice

Researchers had surveyed 571 students regarding their attitudes and perceptions of using AI, especially in the context of English listening practice. Results showed that students are mostly comfortable with using AI to practice English listening, which can allow for greater customization of English listening practice. This can help foster learner autonomy and help teachers create appropriate international or business listening practices for a variety of situations. Understanding can bring peaceful communication to potentially tumultuous encounters.

Speaker: Jerry Johnston (Kwansei Gakuin University)

Saturday 1 22.docx

10:50 AM → 11:15 AM Saturday 1 Room 23: Teaching Methods for Facilitating the Transition from Japanese to English Rhetorical Conventions

Convener: Yuri Miyata (Temple University Japan)

10:50 AM → 11:15 AM Saturday 1 Room 24: Move Your Talk: Coherence Through Discourse Markers with Hand Gestures in Academic Presentations

Conveners: Ariane Nicole Dacula (Rizal Technological University), Jessryl Almario (Rizal Technological University), Joyce Anne Luzon, Mariane Isabel Dela Cruz

10:50 AM Move Your Talk: Coherence Through Discourse Markers With Hand Gestures In Academic Presentations

Rizal Technological University
arianenicoledacula@gmail.com

This study explores how discourse markers and hand gestures enhance coherence in academic oral presentations among L2 learners. Using a qualitative design, video presentations of ten second-year English majors were analyzed through Creswell’s (2012) six-step framework and multimodal discourse analysis. Results show that markers like “so,” paired with gestures such as pointing and open-handed movements, improve transitions, emphasize key points, and engage audiences. These verbal and nonverbal elements function together to build coherence.The study also recommends incorporating gesture and discourse marker training in teacher education and encourages further research on multimodal communication in cross-cultural contexts.

Speakers: Ariane Nicole Dacula (Rizal Technological University), Ms Jessryl Almario (Rizal Technological University), Joyce Anne Luzon, Mariane Isabel Dela Cruz

Saturday 1 24.docx

10:50 AM → 11:15 AM Saturday 1 Room 26: Exploring the SDGs through PBLL: A Framework for Content-Based Academic English

Convener: James Underwood

10:50 AM Exploring the SDGs through PBLL: A Framework for Content-Based Academic English

This presentation reports on the adaptation of the Project-Based Language Learning (PBLL) framework to teach the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in an academic content-based course. Over six weeks, students researched an SDG about a specific country using a structured framework and selected resources. Each week included homework research, peer sharing, academic skills tutorials, and shared texts. In the seventh week, students presented their findings, followed by a discussion. The presenter will outline the course structure, materials, and activities, and share examples of student work. Participants will gain insights into integrating PBLL and SDGs in academic English instruction.

Speaker: James Underwood

Saturday 1 26.docx

10:50 AM → 11:15 AM Saturday 1 Room 28: American Presidents 1989-Present: Tariffs and Japan, a Retrospective

Convener: Mr Harry Carley (Matsuyama University)

10:50 AM American Presidents 1989-Present: Tariffs and Japan, a Retrospective

The United States and Japan have maintained a close and mutually advantageous economic and trade relationship since the end of WWII. This large amount of trade unfortunately has not always been balanced in the eyes of one nation or the other. The U.S. in particular, has been vocal about any disparities, with the threat and action of tariffs on Japanese goods. This submission will center on the comparison and contrast of trade approaches of various U.S. Presidents from 1989 to current, regarding commerce with Japan. Emphasis will be conveying an understanding of American tariffs, their policies, and their unpredictable outcomes.

Speaker: Mr Harry Carley (Matsuyama University)

Saturday 1 28.docx

11:25 AM → 11:50 AM Saturday 2 Room 22: Can Unions Close the Gender Gap in University EFL Teaching in Japan?

Convener: Julia Kimura, PhD (Mukogawa Women's University)

11:25 AM Can Unions Close the Gender Gap in University EFL Teaching in Japan?

This presentation explores gender disparity in Japanese university EFL teaching, a field where women dominate the contingent workforce yet face systemic inequities. Despite broader attention to gender inequality in Japanese workplaces and unions, little research has examined its impact in this context. Drawing on two studies, I analyze interviews with female EFL professionals and their experiences with career advancement. I also investigate their participation in labour unions, revealing the union’s paradoxical role in both addressing and perpetuating gender gaps. These findings highlight the need for more inclusive employment policies and union practices to promote equity for contingent educators.

Speaker: Julia Kimura, PhD (Mukogawa Women's University)

Saturday 2 22.docx

11:25 AM → 11:50 AM Saturday 2 Room 23: Scaffolding Critical Thinking through the Strategic Use of AI

Convener: Tyson Rode (Meikai University)

11:25 AM Scaffolding Critical Thinking through the Strategic Use of AI

Tyson Rode and Patrizia M.J. Hayashi
Meikai University

This study reports students’ perceptions of using AI to assist with the preparation of a Model United Nations activity in a university-level EFL discussion and debate focused class. The research herein describes an approach taken by an EFL instructor to develop learners' content knowledge quickly through the use of traditional scaffolding methods such as brainstorming and categorizing, and then supplementing these processes with AI-assisted scaffolding techniques and research.

Speakers: Mrs Patrizia M.J. Hayashi (Meikai University), Mr Tyson Rode (Meikai University)

Saturday 2 23.docx

11:25 AM → 11:50 AM Saturday 2 Room 24

11:25 AM → 11:50 AM Saturday 2 Room 26: Knowing Names: Benefits Beyond the Classroom

Convener: Susan Sullivan (Tokai University)

11:25 AM Knowing Names: Benefits Beyond the Classroom

U.S. studies on the use of name tents to encourage students to learn each other’s names have suggested that one of the related benefits is that students knowing individual class members’ names can lead to enhanced opportunities for meaningful interaction outside of the classroom. These opportunities can be advantageous for positive social and educational development. This study explores whether the same benefits are apparent for students who have learnt each other’s names through mnemonic activities in EFL lessons at a Japanese university.

Speaker: Susan Sullivan (Tokai University)

Saturday 2 26.docx

11:25 AM → 11:50 AM Saturday 2 Room 28: Bridging Divides Through Film: Another Day to Stay Alive

Convener: サイラス　望 セスナ (ソリコンサルタンツ)

11:25 AM Bridging Divides Through Film: Another Day to Stay Alive

This presentation describes my effort to bridge Japanese/Non-Japanese divides through my short film "Another Day to Stay Alive," which premiered in Skip City International D Cinema Festival on July 23 this year. This film portrays a Japan-born and bred non-Japanese who declares to his Japanese wife and half-Japanese daughter that he will kill himself, leading to an intense discussion on identity and ostracism between them. The presentation describes the process of creating this film, discusses art as a means of effecting social change, and suggests how educators can use films like these to promote understanding from Japanese students.

Speaker: サイラス　望 セスナ (ソリコンサルタンツ)

Saturday 2 28.docx

12:00 PM → 12:25 PM Saturday 3 Room 22: Assessing Validity and Reliability of Metacognitive Awareness Instrument for Arabic Learners

Conveners: Diana Sholihah (Universitas Islam Tribakti Lirboyo Kediri), Diani Fatmawati (Kyung Hee University; University of Muhammadiyah Malang)

12:00 PM Assessing validity and reliability of metacognitive awareness instrument for Arabic learners

Research on metacognitive awareness among Arabic learners in Islamic universities is limited. This study provides the first validation of the Junior Metacognitive Awareness Inventory (Jr. MAI) in the Indonesian Arabic language learning context. A total of 216 students from seven Islamic universities participated. The translated Jr. MAI achieved a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.840, with 16 of 18 items showing acceptable to strong correlations (r = 0.318–0.558). Two items were weakly correlated and require revision. The findings support the Indonesian Jr. MAI as a reliable, valid tool for research and instructional improvement.

Speakers: Diana Sholihah (Universitas Islam Tribakti Lirboyo Kediri), Diani Fatmawati (Kyung Hee University; University of Muhammadiyah Malang)

Saturday 3 22.docx

12:00 PM → 12:25 PM Saturday 3 Room 23: Learner Evaluation of Speaking Proficiency: Communicative Adequacy in the EFL Context

Convener: Shzh-chen Nancy Lee (Osaka University)

12:00 PM Learner evaluation of speaking proficiency: communicative adequacy in the EFL context

The evaluation of English speaking proficiency remains a challenge for learners and teachers in Japan. This study examines learner evaluation of EFL communicative adequacy. Communicative adequacy has been conceptualized as the extent to which speakers successfully achieve the communicative goals of a given task (Pallotti, 2009). Fifty Japanese university students evaluated a video of two learners attempting to schedule an appointment with each other. They intuitively rated the extent of target speaker’s success on a five-point Likert scale and explained their judgments in a questionnaire. Results will be compared with prior research on learner evaluations of monologues and dialogues.

Speaker: Shzh-chen Nancy Lee (Osaka University)

Saturday 3 23.docx

12:00 PM → 12:25 PM Saturday 3 Room 24: How to Improve Experience in Recorded Classes for both Teacher and Students

Convener: Yutaka Koga

12:00 PM How to improve experience in recorded classes for both teachers and students

This presentation introduces some problems that occur in recorded university classes with respect to diversity in cognition, drawing on a personal experience. It then explains a unique solution to this problem and why it will work. The aim of this presentation is to inform people about what really happens to certain minorities, and how small differences in class format can lead to great changes.

Speaker: Yutaka Koga

Saturday 3 24.docx

12:00 PM → 12:25 PM Saturday 3 Room 26

12:00 PM → 12:25 PM Saturday 3 Room 28: Global popular campaigns supporting the intersection between commerce, language, and peace

Convener: Paul DUFFILL (Rikkyo University)

12:00 PM Global popular campaigns supporting the intersection between commerce, language, and peace

Commerce and its language can support—or block—prospects for peace and equal human rights. One critical current example is commerce (and associated language) that supports Israel’s chronic and systematic rejection of: equal rights for Palestinians, international rule-of-law, and international peace through dialogue. This presentation will examine efforts, specifically the global popular nonviolent movement for peace and equal human rights in Palestine-Israel, that work to help commercial activities support—rather than undermine—international peace and equality. A case study, focused on the campaign to reverse the anti-peace and anti-equality commercial activities of the major international brand SodaStream, will be utilised.

Speaker: Paul DUFFILL (Rikkyo University)

Saturday 3 28.docx

12:25 PM → 2:30 PM Lunch

Please have your lunch anywhere close by the station or in the refreshments room.

2:30 PM → 3:25 PM Plenary 2 Room 26: How Do Global Business Leaders Persuade Their Followers? A Corpus-Based Analysis of Business Presentations

Convener: Yasuo Nakatani (Hosei University)

2:30 PM How Do Global Business Leaders Persuade Their Followers? A Corpus-Based Analysis of Business Presentations

This plenary presents findings from a large-scale corpus analysis of over one million words from the public speeches of 100 globally recognized leaders, including Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Bill Gates, and Larry Page. The results reveal a clear pattern: these leaders consistently use specific communication strategies designed to move their audience from passive listeners to active participants. In contrast, comparative analyses of English speeches by Japanese business leaders, such as Akio Toyoda, show that these persuasive strategies are often underutilized—highlighting a critical gap in global communication effectiveness.

Speaker: Yasuo Nakatani (Hosei University)

Plenary 2 26.docx

3:35 PM → 4:00 PM Saturday 4 Room 22: アジア地域WPSモデルの構築に向けて――自衛隊の役割と可能性

Convener: 岩田 英子 PhD (防衛省防衛研究所)

3:35 PM アジア地域WPSモデルの構築に向けて――自衛隊の役割と可能性

Women, Peace and Security（WPS）は、2000年の国連安保理決議1325に端を発し、女性の平和構築・安全保障分野への参画を促す国際的枠組みです。欧米では制度化が進む一方、アジア地域は多様な安全保障環境・政治文化を背景に、一律の導入が難しい側面があります。日本においても自衛隊が非伝統的分野においてWPSに関連した取り組みを進めていますが、その意義や方向性は明確ではありません。本発表は、アジアにおけるWPS履行の実情と課題を整理し、地域的なWPSモデルを提案することを目的とします。特に、自衛隊が担いうる役割と今後の展望に焦点を当てます。

Speaker: 岩田 英子 PhD (防衛省防衛研究所)

Saturday 4 22.docx

3:35 PM → 4:00 PM Saturday 4 Room 23: Language Practices and Discourses in Canadian Business Studies

Convener: Brent Amburgey, PhD (Hitotsubashi University)

3:35 PM Language practices and discourses in Canadian business studies

This presentation will introduce findings from a qualitative study of the language practices of plurilingual undergraduate students of business at a Canadian university. It will explore themes including how the participants report drawing on their respective L1s, other languages in their linguistic repertoires, and cultural knowledge – while navigating learning in an English-dominant context. The study also considers how participants interact with and respond to social discourses around language and language use. The presentation will conclude with consideration of implications for pedagogy, including in language classrooms, multilingual contexts, and disciplines such as business communication studies.

Speaker: Brent Amburgey, PhD (Hitotsubashi University)

Saturday 4 23.docx

3:35 PM → 4:00 PM Saturday 4 Room 24: From "Jetinho" to "Shikata ga na": Compromise between Brzil and Japan

Convener: Hellen Haga

3:35 PM From “Jeitinho” to “Shikata ga nai”: Compromise between Brazil and Japan

Effective business communication goes far beyond speaking the same language. Cultural values shape how professionals interact, negotiate, and build trust; sometimes causing misinterpretations.
This talk explores the cultural dynamics influencing communication between Brazilian and Japanese businesspeople. Using real examples, we will examine common causes of misunderstandings and their impact on workplace collaboration.
Participants will gain strategies to reduce communication barriers, improve mutual understanding, and strengthen relationships across these cultures. The session offers actionable insights for navigating multicultural environments effectively, whether in language teaching, corporate training, or international business.

Speaker: Hellen Haga

Saturday 4 24.docx

3:35 PM → 4:00 PM Saturday 4 Room 26: Teaching Multiperspectivity: Ainu Textbooks, "Iwakan," and Neuroscience

Convener: Jennifer Teeter (Kyoto Seika University)

3:35 PM Teaching Multiperspectivity: Ainu Textbooks, "Iwakan", and Neuroscience

Amid rising polarization, instruction that fosters the holding of multiple truths is critical. Drawing on classroom-tested activities from university courses, this practical session introduces a repeatable protocol for teaching multiperspectivity, using Ainu representation in Japanese textbooks as an illustrative case. Activities were developed and used in second- through fourth-year Japanese university courses. After examining how state‑centered narratives shape public understanding, strategies are modelled that surface absent voices. Anchored in James R. Doty’s neuroscience on attention, intention, compassion, and “survival‑mode” habits, the approach blends metacognitive "iwakan" check‑ins with reflective questioning, power‑mapping, and audience‑aware rewriting.

Speaker: Jennifer Teeter (Kyoto Seika University)

Saturday 4 26.docx

3:35 PM → 4:00 PM Saturday 4 Room 28: English as a Global Corporate Language: Japanese cases within the EFL Research Framework

Convener: Saeko Ujiie (SBF Consulting LLC)

3:35 PM English as a Global Corporate Language: Japanese Cases within the ELF Research Framework

This presentation examines the use of English in Japanese business contexts through the lens of English as a Lingua Franca (ELF). Based on interviews with Japanese bilingual professionals, the study finds that English is mainly used to communicate with non-Japanese-speaking counterparts, while Japanese remains preferred among Japanese colleagues. Mandating English in such interactions is seen as counterproductive. Japanese NNESs in English-as-a-native-language (ENL) environments face disadvantages not experienced in non-ENL settings, largely due to unawareness of ELF–ENL differences. The study calls for greater ELF awareness among corporate leaders and ENL employees, supported by clear, context-sensitive language management policies.

Speaker: Saeko Ujiie (SBF Consulting LLC)

Saturday 4 28.docx

4:10 PM → 4:35 PM Saturday 5 Room 22

4:10 PM → 4:35 PM Saturday 5 Room 23: Asian Approch to International Trade Law?

Convener: Ichiro Araki (Yokohama National University)

4:10 PM Asian Approach to International Trade Law?

Asian countries have historically followed, rather than led, in international trade law. While India and China were early GATT members, China withdrew early and rejoined the WTO only in 2001. India has consistently participated but often with skepticism, opposing initiatives like Joint Statement Initiatives (JSIs). Today, China is assuming a leadership role, especially in investment facilitation, & both Japan and ASEAN support the system quietly. As U.S. support for the WTO weakens, Asia’s role becomes increasingly vital. Multi-Party Interim Appellate Arbitration system (MPIA), created in 2020, tests this shift, with its first case between China and the EU already decided.

Speaker: Ichiro Araki (Yokohama National University)

Saturday 5 23.docx

4:10 PM → 4:35 PM Saturday 5 Room 24: Creating a Japanese-English Picture Book on Traditional Cypress Weaving

Convener: Ms Yukari Kimura (Kanazawa Institute of Technology)

4:10 PM Creating a Japanese-English picture book on traditional cypress weaving

Hakusan Geo, a student club at a private university, uses English to promote the Hakusan Tedorigawa UNESCO Global Geopark to attract international tourists. In 2024, the project received a grant from the University Consortium Ishikawa for regional issue research support. Among many initiatives, the students created an English-Japanese picture book on the 400-year history of local craft, cypress weaving, in collaboration with Hakusan City and local artist residents. Through this project, students learned about their community from residents, received support from the municipality, and contributed to the community using their English skills and youthful creativity.

Speaker: Ms Yukari Kimura (Kanazawa Institute of Technology)

Saturday 5 24.docx

4:10 PM → 4:35 PM Saturday 5 Room 26

4:10 PM → 4:35 PM Saturday 5 Room 28: Japan in an Era of Increased Foreign Engagement: Challenges and opportunities

Convener: Max Pohl

4:10 PM Japan in an Era of Increased Foreign Engagement: Challenges and opportunities

Japan’s weakened yen, increasing labor demand amid an aging population, and growing status as a “soft power superpower” have led to rapid increases in tourism and migration. Although this development has benefited diplomacy and the economy, it has stirred debate among locals. Unlike immigrant nations such as the United States, Japan’s culture developed around a single ethnic group, creating a refined yet less adaptable tradition. The challenge lies in preserving Japan’s heritage while adapting to global shifts. Success requires mutual effort: Japanese citizens safeguarding tradition while embracing change, and foreign visitors respecting cultural norms to foster harmony in evolving Japan.

Speaker: Mr Max Pohl

Saturday 5 28.docx

4:45 PM → 5:40 PM Plenary 3 Room 26: Room 26 GRIPS Student Forum 1

Conveners: Laura Perez (GRIPS), Ooko Maurice Omondi (GRIPS), Shikha Sharma (GRIPS)

4:45 PM GRIPS Forum 1

The National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) is an international premier policy school with the aim of contributing to the betterment of democratic governance around the world. It excels at providing interdisciplinary education for future leaders in the public sector and conduct research on contemporary policy issues to generate innovative solutions.

The forum is designed to allow the students in the master's and doctoral programs the opportunity to share their research on policies and their experiences of studying English in a non-English-speaking country.

Plenary 3 26.docx

6:30 PM → 8:30 PM Conference Dinner

Sun, September 14

10:00 AM → 10:55 AM Plenary 4 Room 26: Bridging Student Apathy and Global Engagement: Lessons from Kenya and for Japanese Universities

Convener: Shotaro Ishida (Politician)

10:00 AM Bridging Student Apathy and Global Engagement: Lessons from Kenya and for Japanese Universities

Japanese universities promote global issues, yet many students remain disengaged. I was one of them until an educational program in my fourth year took me to a slum school in Kenya, where I witnessed students’ fierce commitment to learning despite severe deprivation. This visceral experience led me to politics: I want Japanese people to feel the urgency of social problems near and far. This presentation validates the transformative potential of university education and suggests how university educators could turn apathetic youth into engaged global citizens.

Speaker: Shotaro Ishida (Politician)

Plenary 4 26.docx

11:05 AM → 11:30 AM Sunday 1 Room 22: The Advantages of Toastmasters International: Implications for Japanese EFL Tertiary Contexts

Convener: Roberto Rabbini (Toyo University)

11:05 AM The Advantages of Toastmasters International: Implications for Japanese EFL tertiary contexts

Toastmasters International (TM), a nonprofit organization founded in 1924, uses a global network of clubs to educate leadership, public speaking, and presentation techniques. TM's primary objective is to assist individuals from a variety of backgrounds in developing their leadership, speaking, and communication skills. This presentation's goals are to investigate how this NGO/NPO has been successful in assisting people in becoming better presenters and interlocutors, as well as how comparable strategies might be applied to speaking and presentation courses at the tertiary level in Japan. Some practical examples that can be applied in the classroom will also be shared.

Speaker: Mr Roberto Rabbini (Toyo University)

11:05 AM → 11:30 AM Sunday 1 Room 23: Bridging Youth Aspirations and National Workforce Priorities in the Maldives

Convener: Fathimath Shiyadha (GRIPS (JDS scholarship)- JICA)

11:05 AM Bridging youth aspirations and national workforce priorities in the Maldives

This presentation examines the disparity between the Maldives' national workforce priorities and aspirations of its youth. By analyzing the data from government-funded education programs and labor market outcomes, it demonstrates how the present investments are misaligned with the country's economic needs and student career choices. The session provides insight into developing policies that balance national development goals with aspirations and skills of Maldivian youth, promoting a more sustainable and inclusive future within the specific challenges faced by Small Island Developing States, such as brain drain, wage disparities, and lack of employment opportunities in desired fields.

Speaker: Fathimath Shiyadha (GRIPS (JDS scholarship)- JICA)

Sunday 1 23.docx

11:05 AM → 11:30 AM Sunday 1 Room 24: Bridging the Gap: The State of US IEPs and Japanese Students' Study Abroad

Conveners: Gordon Clark (University of North Texas), Ian Randall (Kansai Gaidai University)

11:05 AM Bridging the Pacific Gap: The State of US IEPs and Japanese Students’ Study Abroad

Colleagues separated by 6400 miles, Gordon Clark of the University of North Texas and Ian Randall of UNT at Kansai Gaidai University, present findings of a transpacific poll on the expectations and experiences of US Intensive English Programs and Japanese universities that sponsor and send study abroad students to them. What are the expectations of each? What happens if the IEP closes? With US F-1 visas at a trickle, are programs adapting to ESTA? How can communication work better for both sides? Conversely, what are the best practices you have experienced? Finally, opportunities for discussion at end.

Speakers: Gordon Clark (University of North Texas), Ian Randall (Kansai Gaidai University)

Sunday 1 24.docx

11:05 AM → 11:30 AM Sunday 1 Room 26: The Impact of the Kenya Study Tour: More lessons from Kenya

Convener: Zane Ritchie (Josai University)

11:05 AM The Impact of the Kenya Study Tour: More lessons from Kenya

Study tours are associated with gains in intercultural competence, civic attitudes, and academic outcomes (e.g., Anderson, et al., 2006; Chieffo & Griffiths, 2004). One program began in 2016, to take Japanese educators to Kenya, and has evolved to include students and reciprocal visits from Kenya to Japan. These have resulted in mutual learning, research collaboration, and development projects. This program changed Mr. Ishida’s life, and his plenary explores the lessons he learned. This roundtable extends this by focusing more on the program itself, panelists outlining their experiences and how participation broadened their horizons and enhanced their own prospects and lives.

Speakers: Kazuya Asakawa (Global Campaign for Peace Education Japan), Shotaro Ishida (Politician), Tosh Tachino (Aoyama Gakuin University), Yuko Kitamura (Nagano University), Zane Ritchie (Josai University)

Sunday 1 26.docx

11:05 AM → 11:30 AM Sunday 1 Room 28

11:40 AM → 12:05 PM Sunday 2 Room 22: Beyond the Page: Extensive Reading to Encourage Self-Efficacy and Self-Regulation

Convener: Brian Inglis

11:40 AM Beyond the Page: Extensive Reading to Encourage Self-efficacy and Self-regulation

What happens when extensive reading becomes discouraging and demotivating? How can we address problems with extensive reading without (re)introducing other, potentially serious ones? These questions inspired an action research project in the context of an internationally-oriented Japanese university’s extensive reading program, which was characterized by student frustration, poor performance, and suspected cheating. Informed by frameworks of self-efficacy and self-regulated learning, one group was instructed to complete reading journals and present them to the teacher. Students succeeded and thrived, and ideas for extensive reading and broader promotion of self-efficacy and self-regulated learning will be discussed.

Speaker: Brian Inglis

Sunday 2 22.docx

11:40 AM → 12:05 PM Sunday 2 Room 23: Bridging Divides through Neuroscience-Informed TESOL: Business English for Global Communication

Convener: Mariana Senda (Meiji University)

11:40 AM Bridging Divides through Neuroscience-Informed TESOL: Business English for Global Communication

This presentation explores how neuroscience-informed TESOL can optimize materials to improve linguistic retention, learner engagement, and intercultural empathy in Japanese university Business English classes. Drawing on my ongoing doctoral research, it demonstrates how principles such as spaced repetition, deliberate practice, multi-sensory input, and emotionally resonant learning can shape effective teaching resources. The session highlights how material design grounded in neuroscience not only enhances academic outcomes but also prepares learners for meaningful participation in professional and intercultural contexts. Participants will take away adaptable, research-based insights that link TESOL practice with Japan’s role in global commerce and peace.

Speaker: Mariana Oana SENDA (Tokyo University of Science, Meiji University)

Sunday 2 23.docx

11:40 AM → 12:05 PM Sunday 2 Room 24: Classroom to Conference Room: Building Communication Confidence for Global Success

Conveners: Gordon Clark (University of North Texas), Maryann Phillips (University of North Texas), Nada Cohadzic (University of North Texas)

11:40 AM Classroom to Conference Room: Building Communicative Confidence for Global Success

This session explores how intensive English programs (IEPs) are evolving to meet 21st-century student needs, especially among Japanese university learners to build transferable communication skills for academic and professional settings. After a brief review of relevant SLA theories, we demonstrate two classroom activities that include task-based approaches and teacher-guided AI tools to promote authentic language use and learner agency. The classroom activities are examined in detail, showing alignment with theory and practical outcomes. Participants will gain ideas for supporting global readiness and prepare learners to engage thoughtfully and ethically in a changing world.

Speakers: Mr Gordon Clark (University of North Texas), Mrs Maryann Phillips (University of North Texas), Nada Cohadzic (University of North Texas)

Sunday 2 24.docx

11:40 AM → 12:05 PM Sunday 2 Room 26: Outdoor Language Education for Global Citizenship and Soft Skills in Japan

Convener: DAVID GANN (〒389-0111 長野県北佐久郡軽井沢町長倉鶴溜２１１５−１９９８ 朝日フレール軽井沢B110)

11:40 AM Outdoor Language Education for Global Citizenship and Soft Skills in Japan

This presentation introduces a proposed research study examining how outdoor education, when culturally adapted to the Japanese context, can develop soft skills for global communication. By reducing learner anxiety and promoting embodied, task-based language use in nature-rich environments, this model enhances both linguistic competence and emotional resilience. It aligns with peace-oriented pedagogy and supports Japan’s leadership in preparing globally minded professionals, bridging divides between language education, international relations, and business communication.

Speaker: DAVID GANN (〒389-0111 長野県北佐久郡軽井沢町長倉鶴溜２１１５−１９９８ 朝日フレール軽井沢B110)

Sunday 2 26.docx

11:40 AM → 12:05 PM Sunday 2 Room 28: Encounters and Hope – Students as Peacebuilders

Convener: Shannon Saruwatashi (Nagasaki Junshin Catholic University)

11:40 AM Encounters and Hope – Students as Peacebuilders

A pilgrimage of American Catholic faith leaders, academics, and students arrived in Hiroshima on August 5th this summer. Their goal was not only to address issues of peacekeeping and nuclear disarmament through a Catholic lens, but also, to specifically discover what university students, as future peacebuilders, could do by working together. As a program coordinator, dialogue facilitator, and presentation moderator, I offer a look at the week`s events through my own experience as a member of the project. The presentation culminates in suggestions and ideas for future collaboration, dialogue, and steps toward action between U.S. and Japanese university students.

Speaker: Shannon Saruwatashi (Nagasaki Junshin Catholic University)

August 10 Program--Nagasaki Symposium.pdf

August 6 Hiroshima Symposium 3.pdf

Encounters and Hope - Students as Peacebuilders.pdf

Peace Memorial Mass_Student Intercessions_8.9.25.docx (2).pdf

Student Panel Aug 10, 2025 (2).pdf

Sunday 2 28.docx

12:05 PM → 2:00 PM Lunch

2:00 PM → 2:55 PM Plenary 5 Room 26: CUE Workshop Roleplays with Purpose: Teaching Register and Building Fluency in Business English Classes

Convener: Rachel Patterson (Kindai University)

2:00 PM Roleplays with Purpose: Teaching Register and Building Fluency in Business English Classes

In addition to vocabulary and grammar, Business English students need pragmatic competence to navigate everyday professional situations. This workshop introduces adaptable strategies and role play activities designed to help learners recognize levels or appropriateness and understand key stages of negotiations.
After a brief overview of relevant pragmatic frameworks, participants will explore classroom-tested materials that build awareness of register, relationship dynamics, and negotiation flow. Attendees will leave with practical tools and valuable experience from the student's perspective they can adapt for their own courses, particularly for intermediate to advanced university learners preparing for global business contexts.

Speaker: Rachel Patterson (Kindai University)

Plenary 5 26.docx

3:05 PM → 3:30 PM Sunday 3 Room 22: CUE in Motion: Staying Relevant in Changing Times

Conveners: Mr Glen Hill, Mariana Senda (Meiji University), Tosh Tachino, PhD (Aoyama Gakuin University)

3:05 PM CUE in Motion: Staying relevant in changing times

CUE in Motion: Staying relevant in changing times

Abstract:
This session presents the results from three surveys of mostly CUE members conducted between 2022 and 2024. The surveys include information such as how they interact with CUE, what they appreciate in CUE, and what they want more from CUE.

Part of the session is spent on eliciting comments from the attendees and discussing how CUE can serve them better. So join us and participate in the conversation to shape the future direction of CUE!

Speakers: Glen Hill (Hokusei Gakuen University), Mariana Senda (Meiji University), Dr Tosh Tachino (Aoyama Gakuin University)

Sunday 3 22.docx

3:05 PM → 3:30 PM Sunday 3 Room 23: Consumer Brands and Finance: Examining Products as Teaching Tools in Finance Education

Convener: Alexander Sheffrin (Ritsumeikan University)

3:05 PM Consumer Brands and Finance: Examining Products as Teaching Tools in Finance Education

Students today are in critical need of finance education. Many educators today feel unprepared to teach and talk about finance. This presentation discusses the importance of finance education and financial literacy and how both students and educators can become prepared to learn and discuss about finance through the use of everyday consumer products. This presentation will discuss how familiar brands and consumer products are practical tools for English speaking, reading, writing, and listening activities related to finance in classrooms.

Speaker: Alexander Sheffrin (Ritsumeikan University)

Sunday 3 23.docx

3:05 PM → 3:30 PM Sunday 3 Room 24: English, Power, and the (Re)Shaping of Ideas

Convener: Jeremy Byma (Musashino University)

3:05 PM English, Power, and the (Re) Shaping of Ideas

This research investigates whether English as a lingua franca democratizes ideas or if it reinforces internal hierarchies in global business. Through the analysis of multinational corporations and linguistic policies, the presentation seeks to expose how English proficiency tends to entrench power asymmetries, and marginalizes non-native speakers. The finding reveal that democratization really only occurs when language policies align with inclusive cultures and structural reforms. Recommendations in this presentation will emphasize context-aware strategies over universal English mandates.

Speaker: Jeremy Byma (Musashino University)

Sunday 3 24.docx

3:05 PM → 3:30 PM Sunday 3 Room 25: Developing Critical Discourse Through Socratic Dialogue: An Integrated CLIL Framework for an Advanced EFL Literature Class

Convener: Robert E Shiffer II (Temple University Japan)

3:05 PM Developing Critical Discourse Through Socratic Dialogue: An Integrated CLIL Framework for an Advanced EFL Literature Class

The pilot class detailed in this paper was designed to match the contextual needs of advanced (CEFR B2-C1) EFL students in a grade 12 literature class in a Japanese international school context. The course was developed to match the language proficiency of the students to reduce their cognitive load in all but the targeted areas of critical thinking and collaborative skills, analytical, logical, and epistemic language skills, and skills for translating literary contents to the self and global contexts. This class incorporates a hard CLIL approach centered around learning how to take part in Socratic dialogues.

Speaker: Robert E Shiffer II (Temple University Japan)

Sunday 3 25 3.docx

3:05 PM → 3:30 PM Sunday 3 Room 25: From Classroom to Global Careers: Preparing University Students for English-Mediated Communication

Convener: 敬子 松本 (創価大学)

3:05 PM From Classroom to Global Careers: Preparing University Students for English-Mediated Communication

This presentation examines a university-level course designed to prepare Japanese and international students for global business communication. Conducted in English with a small, interactive group, the course emphasizes skill-based learning through presentations, negotiations, and intercultural interaction. Students with limited work experience acquire business-relevant expressions, phrases, and vocabulary for authentic contexts. Politeness strategies and intercultural competence are developed through simulations and role-plays. ICT tools such as TED Talks and collaborative platforms enhance engagement. The course bridges academic learning with real-world readiness, fostering practical, culturally sensitive communication.

Speaker: Prof. Yoshiko Matsumoto (Soka University)

Sunday 3 25 4.docx

3:05 PM → 3:30 PM Sunday 3 Room 25: Investigating the Effects of Deductive and Inductive Grammar Instruction on Noticing in L3 Learning: A Case Study of a Korean L1, Japanese L2, English L3 Learner

Convener: Tomomi Seki (Temple University Japan)

3:05 PM Investigating the Effects of Deductive and Inductive Grammar Instruction on Noticing in L3 Learning: A Case Study of a Korean L1, Japanese L2, English L3 Learner

This qualitative case study compares the effects of deductive and inductive grammar instruction on metalinguistic awareness and noticing in third language (L3) acquisition. The participant, a Korean L1 speaker with advanced Japanese (L2) proficiency, received beginner-level English lessons ins Japanese on two grammar forms: comparatives and superlatives adjectives (deductive) and passive voice (inductive). The study explores how the L2 mediates cognitive processing and noticing. Data were collected from stimulated recall, think-aloud protocols, and learner reflections over a six-day program. Finindings highlight the interplay between instructional method and language background in shaping noticing and metalinguistic awareness in multilingual learning contexts.

Speaker: Ms Tomomi Seki (Temple University Japan)

Sunday 3 25 2.docx

3:05 PM → 3:30 PM Sunday 3 Room 25

3:05 PM → 3:30 PM Sunday 3 Room 26: Building News Awareness Through Science Articles in University Classes

Convener: Ryoko Hatomoto (Temple University Japan Campus (Kyoto) & The University of Tokyo)

3:05 PM Building News Awareness Through Science Articles in University Classes

In my science article reading class at the University of Tokyo, I noticed that many first-year students didn’t read newspapers. I found this a bit worrying, since many of them will probably work or do research in global fields in the future. So I brought in science news articles, mostly from the New York Times, and had students read, discuss, and present in groups. In this talk, I’ll introduce how the class worked and share some student feedback. I also hope to check whether their attitude toward news changed after the course ended.

Speaker: Ryoko Hatomoto (The University of Tokyo)

Sunday 3 26.docx

3:05 PM → 3:30 PM Sunday 3 Room 28: Using Case Scenarios to Teach Sociolinguistics in EFL Contexts

Convener: Nidal Butt (Westgate)

3:05 PM Using Case Scenarios to Teach Sociolinguistics in EFL Contexts

This session introduces a classroom approach that uses case scenarios to explore sociolinguistic themes in tertiary EFL settings. Drawing on topics such as language and identity, language and gender, and language death, the approach invites students to examine how language intersects with power, culture, and society. Through guided reflection and discussion, students develop critical awareness of global and local language issues and connect to the discussion using their own experiences.The presentation shares sample materials, student responses, and practical suggestions for integrating sociolinguistic content into EFL or CLIL-style courses.

Speaker: Nidal Butt (Westgate)

CUE presentation.pptx

Sunday 3 28.docx

3:40 PM → 4:35 PM Plenary 6 Room 26: Room 26 GRIPS Student Forum 2

Conveners: Fathimath Shiyadha (GRIPS (JDS scholarship)- JICA), Gerald Mulindwa (GRIPS), Mazumder Md Delwar Hossain, Zubair Muhammad Khan (GRIPS)

3:40 PM GRIPS Forum 2

The National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) is an international premier policy school with the aim of contributing to the betterment of democratic governance around the world. It excels at providing interdisciplinary education for future leaders in the public sector and conduct research on contemporary policy issues to generate innovative solutions.

The forum is designed to allow the students in the master's and doctoral programs the opportunity to share their research on policies and their experiences of studying English in a non-English-speaking country.

Plenary 6 26.docx

4:35 PM → 4:45 PM Ceremony: Room 26 Closing Ceremony and Raffle

Convener: Frederick Bacala (JALT)