Practice of Initiatives Under the Regional Japanese Language Education Start-up Program (Agency for Cultural Affairs): An Overview and Reflection on the 'Minnade Hyakoro! Japanese Language Classroom' in Yoshika Town, Shimane Prefecture

Practice of Initiatives Under the Regional Japanese Language Education Start-up Program (Agency for Cultural Affairs): Focusing on the Overview and Reflection of the 'Minnade Hyakoro! Japanese Language Classroom' in Yoshika Town, Shimane Prefecture
This paper introduces the main activities of the "Minna de Hyakorou!" Japanese language class launch project in Yoshika Town, Shimane Prefecture, implemented in collaboration between the local government and Yamaguchi Prefectural University in FY2024, as well as the findings from the participants' feedback. Reflecting on the classroom activities, it is important to create opportunities for closer interaction between local residents and foreigners, increase opportunities for face-to-face interaction alongside online sessions, and strengthen information exchange and cooperation with local organizations. It also became clear that there is a need for flexible teaching materials tailored to participants' needs, and for Japanese language education that is more closely connected to real-life situations. To further develop the project in the future, the key will be for the government, universities, and local residents to work together to advance the initiative.