Professional Development of the Japanese -Language Teachers in Bangladesh: Present Situation and Challenges

Abstract

Even though teachers’ professional development has become a significant issue in the educational system around the world, it is not yet reflected among the foreign language teachers in Bangladesh. In this research, challenges of the Japanese language teachers in professional development have been investigated. Data derived from the teachers’ interviews and secondary resources are used for the research. It has been found that the concept of professional development is not known to most teachers and both the teachers and the institutions are struggling to develop in this field. A greater part of the teachers is not well equipped with academic knowledge as well as very few have the administrative capacity and network with relevant stakeholders. The research proposed some concrete recommendations for both the Japanese language teachers and policymakers. Particularly, conducting in-country teachers' training is highly recommended. The Institute of Modern Languages, the University of Dhaka and the Japanese Language Teachers’ Association of Bangladesh may take the lead in the professional development of the Bangladeshi Japanese language teachers. In-depth further research should be carried out covering more institutes that offer Japanese Language programmes in this particular field for the development of the Japanese language education as well as all other foreign language education.