The National Symposium on Japanese Language Education was held in Sydney from 15 to 16 November 2024. This nationwide symposium, co-hosted by the Japan Foundation and the Monash Japanese Language Education Centre every two years, aims to share research and practices in Japanese language education at all levels, from primary to higher education, and to foster information exchange, networking, and collaboration across states and educational stages.
Approximately 200 Japanese language educators from across Australia participated in this year’s symposium, which featured more than 30 presentations and lectures over two days. The keynote address, “AI-Enhanced Japanese: Personalising the Learning Journey,” delivered by UK-based language learning consultant Joe Dale, introduced AI tools applicable to Japanese language education and sparked discussions on the future of the field.
CLAIR Sydney also took part in the symposium, hosting a booth to promote our initiatives, such as school exchange programs, the JET Programme, and sister city relationships between Japan and Australia. Additionally, a survey on educational trips to Japan was conducted. Through networking at the booth, the event strengthened ties with Japanese language education professionals in Australia.
Moving forward, we will continue to support school exchange programs between Japan and Australia.