Teaching Experience

Language interactions are instances of performing culture. Learning a language involves learning how to act in the target culture. This approach to teaching goes beyond vocabulary and grammar and focuses on realistic interactions in authentic settings. It is essential to provide opportunities for learners to participate actively and experience a wide range of culturally appropriate situations.

Research

I am involved in research related to various aspects of language acquisition, including reading in a second language. I am also interested in cultural literacy and the influence of culture on language use. My research also involves Japanese language pedagogy. Another major focus of my current work relates to pre-modern Japanese, centering on the writings of Fujitani Nariakira, a significant scholar of the Edo period.

Service

The focus of my citizenship activities is promoting Japanese language education locally and nationally and also contributing to efforts at all levels within the university to foster the mission and aims of a BYU education.

Citizenship assignments

Selected citizenship assignments
Current

•  BYU Japan Club advisor, 1996-99, 2005-2006, 2010-2016, 2019-present
• Search committee member, Department of Asian and Near Eastern Languages, 2020-present
• University Educator Preparation Program committee member, 2019-present
• Board member, International Education Research Society, 2013-2016, 2019-present
  Other
•  Member, Board of Directors, American Association of Teachers of Japanese, 2006-2009
• Japanese Section Head, 2003-2010
• Director, BYU Japan Study Abroad program, 2005, 2006, 2009, 2015
• Japanese teaching assistant trainer, Department of Asian and Near Eastern Languages, 1995-2016
• Assessment Coordinator, Department of Asian and Near Eastern Languages, 2010-2016