Do You Get Nervous in Online Japanese Lessons? Explanation of 5 Reasons and Solutions.
“I am worried about learning Japanese online and get nervous…”
“What are the causes of not doing well in online classes?”
“I want to take online Japanese lessons to enjoy anime more, but I’m nervous…”
More and more people are having these kinds of worries. The advantage of online Japanese lessons is that you can learn in the comfort of your own home, and you have access to a wide range of materials. However, technical problems and anxiety about speaking in public can make you nervous.
In this article, Eri-san from JPLT Online Japanese Language School explains in detail the reasons for nervousness in online classes and their solutions. Please read on to make your Japanese learning more effective!
■ 5 Reasons for Nervousness in Online Japanese Lessons
1. Technical Issues
If the internet connection is unstable or the microphone and camera settings do not work properly, problems may occur during class. Anxiety about such technical problems creates tension.
2. Anxiety About Speaking in Front of Others
Many people feel pressured to speak Japanese in front of other students. In particular, students may be afraid of making mistakes and refrain from speaking up. In an online environment, unlike face-to-face classes, students may feel even more nervous because it is difficult to see the students’ reactions.
3. Self-Consciousness
In online lessons, students may be more sensitive to their appearance and facial expressions than usual and may feel nervous because they are being watched. It may be difficult to act naturally if you feel that you are being watched all the time.
4. Fear of Keeping Up with the Class Pace
If you feel that your classmates are more advanced than you, you may feel anxious about whether you can keep up with the progress. In particular, if the questions and conversations are fast, you may feel stressed because you cannot keep up with them.
5. Worried About Materials and Themes
You may feel anxious about whether the materials used in online lessons are suitable for you or whether you can understand the themes. In particular, for topics that you have never tackled before or complex content, you may feel nervous because you feel the need to do some preparation beforehand.
■ Strategies to Overcome Nervousness in Online Japanese Lessons
1. Dealing with Technical Issues
Preparation: Check your internet connection and equipment before class to make sure there are no problems.
Backup: Use a smartphone or tablet so you can join on another device in case of emergency.
2. Addressing Anxiety About Speaking in Front of Others
Practice: Build confidence in speaking by practicing with family and friends beforehand.
Relaxation: Relax and calm yourself with breathing exercises and meditation before joining the class.
3. Dealing with Self-Consciousness
Camera settings: Reduce self-consciousness by turning off your own image or displaying a small part of the screen if necessary.
Concentration: Be aware of focusing on the content of the class, not on your appearance.
4. Keeping Up with the Class Pace
Preparation: Review the content of the class in advance and prepare in advance to feel more at ease.
Question Preparation: Make a note of any points you are unsure of and be prepared to ask questions during the class.
5. Managing Anxiety About Materials and Themes
Material Review: Read through the materials in advance and understand the important points.
Consult with your teacher: If you have any concerns, consult with your teacher in advance and get their advice.
■5 Things to Keep in Mind to Avoid Nervousness in Online Japanese Lessons
1. Setting Up the Environment
Precaution: Take classes in a quiet place with no noise or visual distractions.
Example: Ask your family members not to disturb you during the lesson.
2. Unfamiliarity with Technology
Precaution: Check how to use the tools in advance.
Example: Practice basic operations on Zoom and Skype.
3. Communication Anxiety
Precaution: If you have any doubts or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Example: Make sure you know when you can ask questions during class if you don’t understand something.
4. Time Management
Precaution: Keep to class time and plan your preparation and review accordingly.
Example: Log in 10 minutes early before class to allow time to relax.
5. Maintaining Motivation
Precaution: Make your learning objectives and goals clear.
Example: Write down your goals on paper and stick them on your desk to keep them in mind at all times.
■Summary
Overcome Nervousness in Online Japanese Lessons!
To avoid nervousness in online Japanese lessons, preparation and mindset are essential. First, create a suitable learning environment. Reducing anxiety by confirming the necessary technology beforehand is crucial. Also, have the courage to ask questions during the lesson to facilitate smooth communication. Time management is also important. By having some relaxed time before and after the lesson, you can increase your concentration. Finally, clarify your learning goals and maintain motivation. Incorporating these strategies will make your online learning experience more fulfilling.
