Let’s admit it – Japanese language classes in Singapore ARE popular, but they’re not without challenges for both students and schools. From students grappling with limited slots and rigid schedules to schools struggling with unprepared or inconsistent learners, the journey to mastering Japanese is a two-way street.
As such, let’s explore the common challenges faced by both learners and educators to gain a clearer perspective on their experiences.
Common Complaints of Students
Learning Japanese sounds like an exciting and rewarding adventure, doesn’t it? However, for many students, the journey isn’t always smooth sailing. Some struggle to even secure a spot in their desired classes, while others face challenges like rigid schedules, high fees, or teaching methods that just don’t suit their learning style. These hurdles can make the process of mastering the language more stressful than anticipated.
In this section, we’ll explore the most common complaints voiced by learners.
1. Large Class Sizes
In some instances, larger class sizes can result in less personalized attention, hindering individual progress. Students may find it challenging to have their specific questions addressed in a crowded classroom setting. For instance, in a class of 20 or more students, teachers may not have the capacity to provide tailored feedback or support, leaving some learners behind. This issue is compounded when shy students feel reluctant to voice their concerns in front of a large group.
2. Limited Class Availability
High demand for Japanese language courses often leads to fully booked classes, making it difficult for new students to enroll. For instance, popular schools are known to have limited slots due to their popularity. This situation is exacerbated during peak enrollment periods, such as the start of the year or after holiday breaks, when many people commit to new goals like learning a language.
3. Inconsistent Teaching Quality
While many institutions employ native Japanese speakers, the effectiveness of teaching can vary, with some students reporting that certain instructors may not adapt their teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles, potentially hindering student progress. For instance, beginners may feel overwhelmed when teachers use advanced Japanese without sufficient explanations, while advanced learners might find the pace too slow.
4. Rigid Scheduling
Fixed class schedules may not accommodate individuals with unpredictable or busy timetables, making consistent attendance challenging. This rigidity can be particularly challenging for individuals with fluctuating commitments, such as shift workers or parents juggling childcare responsibilities. The lack of weekend or evening classes in some schools further limits accessibility for those with traditional 9-to-5 work hours.
5. High Course Fees
The cost of Japanese language courses can be a barrier for some learners. For example, fees at certain institutions can be range from $180 to $3300, which can be unaffordable for some aspiring students. While many institutions justify the fees by highlighting their experienced instructors and small class sizes, students sometimes feel that the value delivered does not align with the premium pricing.
6. Limited Practice Opportunities
Some students feel that classes focus heavily on theory, with insufficient emphasis on practical conversation skills essential for real-world application. This can result in learners being less prepared for actual interactions in Japanese, which can be particularly noticeable for those preparing to travel to or work in Japan.
Common Complaints of Schools
Meanwhile, the schools and instructors also often encounter challenges related to student behaviors that can impact the overall learning experience.
Here are some potential issues schools and instructors might raise about the students they enroll:
1. Unrealistic Expectations
Many students begin Japanese classes with unrealistic expectations about how quickly they can achieve fluency. This often stems from making mistakes when choosing their classes, such as enrolling in an advanced or fast-paced course without considering their current skill level or the time they can realistically dedicate to practice. For instance, expecting to hold fluent conversations within a few weeks might lead to disappointment, especially given the complexities of learning grammar, kanji, and pronunciation.
2. Irregular Attendance
Inconsistent attendance disrupts the learning process for both the individual and their peers. For example, a student who frequently misses classes may struggle to keep up with the curriculum, necessitating repeated reviews and slowing the overall class progression. This can lead to frustration among regularly attending students who feel their time is wasted revisiting content they have already mastered.
3. Lack of Preparation
Students attending classes without completing assigned homework or reviewing previous lessons may struggle to keep pace, affecting overall class dynamics. This lack of preparation can lead to repeated explanations of basic concepts, hindering the advancement of the entire class. Additionally, teachers may also find it challenging to introduce new material if the majority of the class is unprepared, causing delays in the curriculum.
4. Overreliance on Native Language
Excessive use of one’s native language during class can hinder immersion and slow the acquisition of Japanese language skills. For instance, students who consistently converse in their native language during group activities may miss opportunities to practice Japanese, impeding their fluency development. This behavior can also discourage peers who are actively trying to immerse themselves in Japanese, potentially creating a less motivating environment.
5. Limited Participation
Reluctance to engage in class activities, discussions, or practice exercises can impede both individual progress and the collective learning experience. A student who seldom participates may not only miss out on valuable practice but also discourage interactive learning among peers. For example, group activities or role-playing exercises may become less effective when a few individuals do not contribute, forcing others to take on more than their share of the work.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, the world of Japanese language learning in Singapore is full of opportunities but also has its hurdles. For students, the key is managing expectations and staying committed to the process, while for schools, balancing accessibility with effective teaching methods remains an ongoing challenge.
By understanding and addressing these common complaints, both learners and educators can work together to create a more fulfilling and rewarding learning experience. After all, learning a language is as much about collaboration as it is about individual effort—so let’s make it count!
