Speaker
Description
Abstract
Many Japanese universities provide English lounges or Global Plazas where students can interact with English-speaking staff, yet many hesitate to visit because they lack confidence in initiating conversations. This presentation introduces a classroom activity that prepares students for authentic interaction by having them create multiple-choice quiz questions about Japan. Students then ask these questions to Global Plaza staff, creating conversations in which they already know the correct answers. The activity reduces communication anxiety, encourages first-time participation in campus language spaces, promotes peer learning and cultural exchange, and transforms students from passive language learners into confident conversation initiators.