Awareness of English as an International Language: The Impact of Activities in English Learning Facilities in Japan

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of short-term study abroad and cross-cultural activities on the English proficiency of Japanese university students with little to no international exposure. The results confirm the effects on their international outlook, cross-cultural understanding, and motivation to learn English. Their views of language—particularly their attitude toward English as an international language—are also examined. Due to external factors, such as the cancellation of overseas training programs after the spread of COVID-19, we took selected students to two English language study facilities in Japan: Tokyo Global Gateway (TGG)[1] and British Hills (BH)[2]. The students spent one day in TGG and two days in BH, both of which had foreign instructors, to examine how their views of language changed after experiencing several activities in English. We also examined how the degree of change varied depending on the facility. The questionnaire consisted of 10 questions on language perspectives. The results show a decrease in the belief that one must necessarily study in Japan, a decrease in the psychological pressure of feeling obliged to speak like a native, and an increase in the desire to speak like a native. The changes in the students’ views also differed qualitatively, depending on the characteristics of the facilities.