Finding Their Voice: Teaching English Speaking Skills to Japanese University Students in the Modern Era

by Jacqueline Hadel

Finding Their Teaching English Speaking Skills to Japanese University Students in the Modern Era

In 2025 and beyond, Japanese university classrooms are changing. Students live in a hyperconnected, AI-driven world where English is essential for global careers and collaboration. Yet many still struggle to speak with confidence, held back by perfectionism, traditional exam-focused education, and limited opportunities for real communication.

Finding Their Voice is a practical, future-focused guide for educators dedicated to transforming how speaking is taught in Japan. Drawing on decades of teaching experience and grounded in modern language pedagogy, this book offers actionable strategies for building fluency, confidence, and authentic communication skills in Japanese learners.

Inside, you’ll

Proven methods for overcoming cultural and psychological barriers to speaking

Adapted communicative and task-based approaches that fit Japanese classrooms

Techniques for improving pronunciation, rhythm, and intelligibility

Engaging speaking activities, projects, and collaborative learning models

Integration of AI tools, virtual exchanges, and digital communication skills

Guidance on preparing students for study abroad, professional communication, and English as a Lingua Franca (ELF)

Sustainable teaching practices and long-term program design

With over 100 adaptable speaking activities, lesson plans, rubrics, and technology resources in its appendices, this book equips teachers to create supportive, innovative classrooms where Japanese university students can finally speak English with clarity and confidence.

Whether you’re a new instructor or an experienced educator, Finding Their Voice will help you prepare students not just for today’s speaking tasks, but for meaningful, global communication in 2030 and beyond.

76 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 27, 2025

About the author

Jacqueline Hadel is a global educator, writer, and teacher trainer with over two decades of experience teaching English, writing, and AI literacy in more than 40 countries. Her work blends practical tools with poetic insight, drawing from classrooms in Bhutan, Lebanon, Japan, and beyond. She is the author of "Using AI as a Tool, Not a Crutch," as well as creative titles like "My Month with Banksy" and "Japan Street Art." Passionate about ethical learning in a digital age, Jackie writes for students, teachers, and anyone navigating the evolving relationship between humanity and technology.

Reviews

[Jacqueline]

The Rise of English as a Lingua Franca (ELF)

Implications for Japanese Learners:
• Communication success depends on clarity and negotiation skills, not accent
perfection.
• Exposure to a variety of global Englishes (Indian English, Singaporean English, African Englishes) is essential for listening and adaptability.