Why Do Japanese Learners Dislike Group Lessons? Solutions & Tips Explained!
"Why aren't group lessons going well?" "What are the important points when learning in a group?" "I feel the limits of self-study while learning Japanese, what should I do?"
These are questions more and more Japanese learners are asking. Group lessons provide the opportunity to learn from diverse perspectives. Additionally, understanding anime and manga deepens, and practical conversational skills in Japan improve.
In this article, Eri-san from JPLT Online Japanese Language School will thoroughly explain the reasons why Japanese learners struggle with group lessons, solutions, and important points to consider! Let’s maximize your Japanese skills through group learning!
■ 5 Reasons Why Japanese Learners Struggle with Group Lessons
1. Inability to Progress at One’s Own Pace
Example: Some people find the lessons fast, while others find them boring. If the lessons don’t match each person’s progress, their motivation to study may decrease.
2. Different Levels Among Students
Example: If beginners are in the same class as intermediate students, it may be difficult to ask questions and effective learning may not be possible.
3. Limited Individual Feedback
Example: In group lessons, teachers cannot devote time to each student, so it is difficult to receive specific advice on individual assignments.
4. Not Being Good at Speaking Up
Example: People who are not good at speaking in front of others tend to refrain from speaking up, and as a result, they do not get enough conversation practice.
5. Mismatch in Interests and Goals
Example: If someone who wants to use Japanese for work and someone who wants to learn Japanese as a hobby are in the same class, they may feel dissatisfied because the teaching materials and assignments do not match their interests and goals.
■ 5 Solutions for Japanese Learners Struggling with Group Lessons
1. Use Advance Preparation and Review to Adjust Pace
Example: By pre-studying the textbook and understanding the lesson content in advance, you can keep up even if the lesson speed is fast. Also, review the content regularly to deepen your understanding and get used to the lesson flow.
2. Choose Level-Specific Classes or Take Individual Supplementary Lessons
Example: By moving to a class that matches your level or receiving individual tutoring on the weekend, you can understand the content of the class more deeply and close the gap with the level of the whole class.
3. Actively Seek Time for Questions and Feedback from Teachers
Example: By asking the teacher questions directly after class and having them check your understanding, you can get specific advice and use it for the next class.
4. Actively Engage in Small Group Discussions and Pair Work
Example: By exchanging opinions in small groups and practicing everyday conversations in pair work, you can gradually get used to speaking and gain confidence. Start with simple topics and gradually challenge yourself to more complex conversations.
5. Set Personalized Learning Goals That Fit Your Needs
Example: Setting specific learning goals that match your interests and future goals and linking class learning to your personal goals can increase your motivation to study. For example, if you want to learn business Japanese, you can make efforts such as adding assignments related to that field.
■ 5 Points to Note for Those Who Struggle with Group Lessons
1. Avoid Excessive Pressure
Point: Comparing yourself too much with other students can cause stress.
Example: Compare your progress with your past self and celebrate gradual growth to continue learning without feeling pressured by others.
Example: Compare your progress with your past self and celebrate gradual growth to continue learning without feeling pressured by others.
2. Speak with confidence
Point: Fear of making mistakes can prevent you from speaking.
Example: Understand that “mistakes are part of learning” and practice speaking to gradually build confidence.
Example: Understand that “mistakes are part of learning” and practice speaking to gradually build confidence.
3. Listen with an open mind
Point: Don’t reject other opinions or methods.
Example: Learn from classmates’ different perspectives and methods, and incorporate them into your own learning style.
Example: Learn from classmates’ different perspectives and methods, and incorporate them into your own learning style.
4. Understand group dynamics
Point: Don’t ignore roles and dynamics within the group.
Example: Recognize the roles of proactive leaders and those who prefer support, and collaborate effectively to ensure smooth class progression.
Example: Recognize the roles of proactive leaders and those who prefer support, and collaborate effectively to ensure smooth class progression.
5. Use time efficiently
Point: Avoid wasting time on group activities.
Example: Set goals and use group discussion time efficiently to learn more in less time. Focus on the agenda to prevent discussions from drifting off-topic.
Example: Set goals and use group discussion time efficiently to learn more in less time. Focus on the agenda to prevent discussions from drifting off-topic.
■Summary
Learn Japanese Efficiently with Group Lessons!
Group lessons for learning Japanese are a great opportunity to gain diverse perspectives and acquire practical skills by sharing opinions with others. By thoroughly pre-studying and reviewing, and actively asking questions, you can deepen your learning at your own pace. Small group discussions and pair work are effective means to cultivate practical skills.
JPLT Online Japanese Language School provides personalized learning plans tailored to individual needs, creating an environment where you can efficiently master Japanese.
