Abstract
Lingua franca (LF) communication research is critical to addressing the challenges and opportunities posed by our increasingly interconnected and linguistically diverse world. English is at the forefront of LF scenarios owing to its global prevalence and international significance. In contrast, Japanese as a lingua franca (JLF) has a different dynamic, unfolding primarily within specific communities and contexts. For example, internationalization efforts in Japan’s higher education institutions have given rise to intercultural collaborative learning courses and virtual exchanges. These endeavors foster JLF communication between local students (first language speakers; L1 speakers) and Japanese language learners (non-L1 speakers) from overseas partner universities to enrich their communication skills and intercultural competence, thereby bridging the linguistic divide through a common medium of choice. However, research on L1 speakers in the LF paradigm is limited. This study examined the dynamics experienced by Japanese L1 speakers as they adapt, communicate, and perceive their roles and behaviors in a JLF context. Drawing upon online JLF interactions and subsequent interviews, empirical data are presented to highlight the distinctive behaviors and perceptions of Japanese L1 speakers in these situations compared with other L1-speaker contexts. These findings provide valuable insights into their attitudes and strategies for effective communication. Furthermore, this study explores the pedagogical implications of these findings, providing educators with practical insights into preparing L1 students for meaningful engagement in JLF scenarios, thereby promoting intercultural understanding and effective communication.
Author Information
Mitsuko Takei, Hiroshima Shudo University, Japan
Paper Information
Conference: IICE2024
Stream: International Education
This paper is part of the IICE2024 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Takei M. (2024) Japanese as a Lingua Franca: Exploring Communication Dynamics and Pedagogical Insights for L1 Speakers ISSN: 2189-1036 – The IAFOR International Conference on Education – Hawaii 2024 Official Conference Proceedings https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2189-1036.2024.42
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2189-1036.2024.42
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