Teaching Experience

My usual classes include Japanese 302, 325, and 326. My favorite part of teaching these courses is combining language learning with analysis and critical thinking skills. I especially enjoy approaching the study of language at BYU with the perspective of becoming acquainted with “language, tongues, and people,” which I think is ever more vital for navigating a world that sees more intercultural contact and global connection than ever before.

Research

My research falls in the broad area of Japanese sociolinguistics, specifically using Conversation Analysis and other discursive approaches to study intercultural interactions. I am especially interested in situations involving learners of Japanese in professional and institutional settings. My work often attempts to understand the role of social identities in communication and interaction.

Selected Publications

Moody, S. & Tsuchiya, S. (2020). Participation in Multiparty Language Play: Sociability and Learning in Dinnertime Conversations. Applied Linguistics.

Moody, S. (2019). Interculturality as social capital at work: The case of disagreements in American-Japanese interaction. Language in Society, 48(3). 377-402.

Moody, S. (2019). Contextualizing macro-level identities and constructing inclusiveness through teasing and self-mockery: A view from the intercultural workplace in Japan. Journal of Pragmatics, 152. 145-159.

Moody, S. (2018). Fitting in or standing out? A conflict of belonging and identity in intercultural polite talk at work. Applied Linguistics, 39(6). 775-798.

Moody, S. (2014). ‘Well, I’m a gaijin’: Constructing identity through English and humor in the international workplace. Journal of Pragmatics, 60. 75-88

Service

In academic service, I believe that the primary focus should be enhancing the educational experience for students. I am especially interested in strengthening experiential education efforts through internships and other hands-on professionalizing activities. I am looking forward to taking students to the Boston Career Forum as part of a new program we are developing to provide opportunities for using Japanese in real-world, high-stakes activities.

Citizenship assignments

BYU Japan Internship Coordinator, 2018 – Present

ANEL Department Assessment Coordinator, 2018 – Present

Member, American Association of Applied Linguistics, Standing Committee for Online Education and Outreach, Professional Development Sub-committee, 2020 – Present

Faculty Coordinator, Japan House, 2015 – 2019