Tutor Introduction
Introduction
Dear Prospective Students,
I am Dr. Yoko Arinaga, and I am delighted to introduce myself as a Japanese language instructor with extensive academic and research experience. As a former Associate Professor at Nagasaki University and currently an active researcher, I bring a unique blend of academic expertise and engaging teaching methods to Japanese language education.
Academic Background and Research:
I hold a doctorate from Tohoku University's Graduate School of Medicine, where I specialized in healthcare and support systems. My research has been internationally recognized, including receiving the Best Oral Presentation Award at the Asia Pacific Lymphology Conference. I have published numerous peer-reviewed papers in both English and Japanese, demonstrating my proficiency in both languages and understanding of cross-cultural communication.
Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience spans multiple prestigious institutions:
- Associate Professor at Nagasaki University
- Assistant Professor at Tohoku University
- Assistant Professor at Fukushima Medical University
This academic background has equipped me with effective teaching methods and a deep understanding of how to make language learning both enjoyable and meaningful.
Teaching Philosophy:
My approach to Japanese language instruction is centered on making learning enjoyable and personally meaningful:
1. Interest-Based Learning:
- I believe that learning is most effective when it's connected to your interests and goals
- Lessons can be structured around topics you're passionate about, from anime to business
- We can incorporate materials from your favorite Japanese media or professional field
2. Natural Conversation Flow:
- Learning through authentic dialogue rather than rigid textbook patterns
- Discussing real-life topics that matter to you
- Building confidence through friendly conversation
3. Comfortable Learning Environment:
- Creating a relaxed atmosphere where making mistakes is part of learning
- Encouraging questions and exploration of the language
- Celebrating progress, no matter how small
International Experience:
Throughout my career, I have:
- Conducted international research collaborations with institutions in Australia and Germany
- Served as a medical interpreter for Nagasaki Prefecture
- Led international conference presentations
- Worked with diverse groups of international students and researchers
Teaching Methodology:
My lessons combine:
- Conversational practice based on your interests
- Flexible grammar instruction
- Cultural context through real-life examples
- Academic and professional Japanese (if desired)
- Custom-tailored learning materials based on your needs
Specializations:
I offer specialized instruction in:
- Academic Japanese for researchers and students
- Business Japanese
- Medical and healthcare Japanese
- Cultural and daily life Japanese
- JLPT preparation at all levels
Current Research and Academic Activities:
I remain active in academic research, currently leading a JSPS (Japan Society for Promotion of Science) funded research project. This ongoing engagement with academia helps me bring real-world perspectives to our Japanese language conversations.
International Communication Skills:
As someone who regularly publishes in international journals and presents at global conferences, I understand the challenges of cross-cultural communication. This experience helps me:
- Create comfortable learning environments
- Explain concepts clearly and naturally
- Bridge cultural and linguistic gaps effectively
- Share relevant examples from both daily life and academic contexts
Teaching Style:
My teaching style is:
- Friendly and conversational
- Focused on your interests and goals
- Flexible and adaptable
- Supportive and encouraging
- Enhanced by real-world examples
Available Lesson Formats:
- One-on-one conversation sessions
- Small group classes
- Academic writing workshops (if needed)
- Business Japanese seminars
- JLPT preparation courses
- Cultural exchange sessions
What Sets Me Apart:
1. Academic Background: While I have a strong academic background, I prefer to create a relaxed, friendly learning environment.
2. International Experience: Regular interaction with international researchers and students has taught me how to make learning Japanese enjoyable and effective.
3. Practical Approach: I focus on helping you use Japanese in ways that matter to you.
4. Flexible Teaching Style: I adapt my teaching style to match your interests and learning preferences.
Goals for Students:
My aim is to help you:
- Develop Japanese language skills through enjoyable conversation
- Learn Japanese that's relevant to your interests
- Understand Japanese culture through natural discussion
- Build confidence in Japanese communication
- Achieve your specific language learning goals in a relaxed environment
Support Services:
I also offer:
- Conversation practice
- Cultural guidance
- Translation assistance
- Academic support (if needed)
- Professional communication coaching
Commitment to Student Success:
I am committed to:
- Creating an enjoyable learning environment
- Focusing on topics that interest you
- Providing gentle guidance and encouragement
- Adjusting teaching methods based on your preferences
- Supporting your language learning journey in a friendly way
If you're looking for a Japanese language instructor who can combine academic knowledge with a friendly, conversational teaching style, I would be delighted to help you achieve your language learning goals. While I have a background in university education and research, my teaching style is relaxed and focused on making learning Japanese an enjoyable experience.
I welcome students of all levels and backgrounds, and I look forward to having engaging conversations that help you develop your Japanese language skills naturally.
For more information about lesson schedules, formats, and rates, please feel free to contact me. I'm happy to discuss how we can make your Japanese learning journey both enjoyable and effective.
Best regards,
Dr. Yoko Arinaga
Ph.D., Former Associate Professor at Nagasaki University
Active Researcher, JSPS Grant Recipient
Schedules
* The time on this calendar is Japan Standard Time(JST). Please make sure to adjust it according to your local time zone. Nekotalk will send you an invitation via email through Google Calendar. The scheduled time will be based on your local time zone.
Carrer
【Education】
Jun 2005 - Dec 2006: Completed Master of Palliative Care (MPallC),Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences,Flinders University, South Australia
Apr 2010 - Mar 2014: Completed Doctoral Course in Family Support Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University (Obtained Ph.D. in Nursing)
【Work】
Apr 2007 - Mar 2010: Nurse at Tohoku University Hospital
Apr 2010 - Mar 2012: Research Assistant, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University
Apr 2012 - Mar 2014: Assistant Professor, Fukushima Medical University
Apr 2014 - Mar 2016: Assistant Professor, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University
Apr 2016 - Feb 2018: Associate Professor, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University
Mar 2019 - : Founded Ai International Medical Research Institute
Mar 2022 - Aug 2023: Associate Professor, University of Human Arts and Sciences
【Licence】
Registered Nurse