Preparation for Overseas Study

Google Classroom: 62js2eb

The main aim of this course is to become familiar with the types of overseas study, skills required when studying abroad, and academic skills required for especially graduate school, internship and other types of study abroad. The students will also learn to develop critical thinking, autonomous learning, discussion and coordination skills in English through interaction with teachers and peers.

The transition from studying in your own native country to studying abroad can be a challenge. This course is designed to help students make the difficult transition and gain the basic knowledge and the necessary competencies of what will be required of you studying abroad. We will identify individual study abroad needs, and what UEC and other institutions have to offer. Your intention to study abroad may be organized through the university or by yourself. The student body in this course is expected to be a mixture of international (those already experiencing study abroad in Japan) and Japanese students (those intending to study abroad). We will work on supporting each other's study abroad needs, share cultural differences, identify current and potential problems, and provide possible solutions. The dynamics of the class will include much sharing of experiences, discussion, critical thinking and autonomous learning.

In summary, the goals of this course are to:
●Identify your study abroad goals.
●Get to know the campus facilities and staff involved.
●Gain first hand knowledge of future schedules for study abroad opportunities.
●Share experiences, problems, and possible solutions.

Another goal is to support UEC's first international day, a student run event to promote intercultural communication. Through this project, you will learn to negotiate and build communication and collaboration skills.

Academic Spoken English I and II
Academic Written English I and II

Academic English for the 2nd Year

Materials will be provided and students will be expected to search for materials as well.

Week 1: Course introduction
Week 2: Self introduction and self-assessment: Identify needs, goals, and program selection.
Week 3: Planning for international day booth/stage event
Week 4: Life skills: Cultural difference and diversity, planning for international day booth
Week 5: Life skills: Campus life and living overseas, planning for international day booth
Week 6: May 10 International Day (May 12 no class)
Week 7: On-campus support and resources (Study abroad, Internship, Library, SAP)
Week 8: Share experiences, problems and possible solutions
Week 9: Study abroad preparation (2): English aptitude tests, IELTS
Week 10: Study abroad preparation (1): CVs, entry sheets, motivation letters
Week 11: Academic skills: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Week 12: Academic skills: Reading, writing, presentation, and discussion skills
Week 13: Mock interviews
Week 14: Final presentations
Week 15: Final presentations and reflection

Note: The weekly schedule is subject to change depending on the class size, students' English ability, and student preference of th syllabus content.

Preparation by reading assigned readings and activities for the class should be completed as instructed prior to each class. Students are expected to spend about one hour each week to complete assignments and review class notes.

Class participation = 20%
Assignments = 40%
Presentation = 20%
Interview = 20%

By appointment

The class will be conducted in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and to encourage critical thinking and discussion.

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