Is Teaching English in Japan Worth It?

Do you know the benefits and challenges of Teaching English to young learners in Japan? Japan has a rich and unique culture but needs to improve its English. According to a survey by EF Education First, Japan ranked 55th out of 100 countries in English skills in 2020. It has motivated many Japanese parents to enroll their children in English classes. They are hoping to give them a competitive edge in the globalized world.

Teaching English to young learners in Japan is a dream job for many ESL teachers who love working with children and are fascinated by Japanese culture. Nevertheless, it is a challenging job, too. It requires a lot of preparation, patience, creativity, communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and professional development.

In this article, I will highlight some of the benefits and challenges of teaching English to young learners in Japan based on the experiences and insights of teachers who have worked or are working in this field. This article will help you to decide if teaching English to young learners in Japan is the right fit for you.

Benefits of Teaching English to Young Learners in Japan

• Young learners are fast and enthusiastic learners.

They can absorb new vocabulary and grammar quickly and easily, especially if exposed to authentic and natural language input. Also, they are interested in learning about different cultures and perspectives, which can make the lessons more engaging and fun.

• They are creative and playful.

Besides, they enjoy learning through games, songs, stories, crafts, and other activities that activate their imagination and senses. Teachers can use these methods to create an environment of trust and respect where students feel valued and heard.

• Young learners are responsive and appreciative.

They can form strong bonds with their teachers and classmates. Also, they show their gratitude and affection openly. Teachers can feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when they see their student’s progress and happiness.

• It can open up many opportunities for professional development and personal growth.

Teachers can learn new skills and techniques from their colleagues and employers, as well as from online resources and courses. Moreover, they can also learn about Japanese culture, history, cuisine, art, and more from their students, co-workers, friends, and host families.

Challenges of Teaching English to Young Learners in Japan

• Young learners have short attention spans and concentration.

They can get bored or distracted easily if the lessons need to be more varied. Teachers should plan their lessons carefully and adapt them to the student’s needs, interests, levels, and learning styles. They also need backup activities and materials ready in case something goes wrong or unexpected happens.

• They have different expectations and motivations.

Some students may be eager and motivated to learn English, while others may be reluctant or indifferent. Besides, some parents may have high expectations and pressure on their children to achieve goals, while others may not be involved or supportive. Teachers should communicate effectively with students and parents and set realistic and achievable objectives that suit each student’s abilities and preferences.

• Young learners have diverse backgrounds and personalities.

They may come from different regions, schools, families, religions, or ethnicities. They may also have different personalities, temperaments, learning difficulties, or behavioral issues. Teachers should be respectful and sensitive to these differences and create an inclusive and harmonious classroom culture where everyone feels welcome and valued.

•  Teaching English to young learners in Japan can entail some practical challenges as well.

Teachers may face difficulties finding suitable jobs, obtaining visas, securing accommodation, adjusting to the local lifestyle, dealing with culture shock, coping with stress or isolation, or managing their finances. They should research before applying for jobs, seek advice from experienced teachers or agencies, prepare themselves mentally and physically for the move, and seek help when needed.

Knowing the benefits and challenges of teaching English in Japan can be a good guide, whether it is for you or not. Moreover, teaching English to young learners in Japan can be a rewarding career choice for certified ESL teachers who love working with children. However, it is also a profession that requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice.

Teachers who want to teach here should consider both the benefits and challenges of this field before making their decision. Also, look for reputable platforms or programs that offer quality training, support, guidance, feedback, resources, opportunities, requirements, visa assistance, etc. By doing so, teachers can ensure a positive and successful teaching experience that benefits both themselves and their students.

I hope this article has helped you. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Also, you can check our YouTube videos for, interview Q&A, job-related, inspirational, and motivational videos.  Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you at the next one.