Helping Japanese ESL/EFL Learners Overcome Difficulties in Intercultural Communication

Abstract

This paper examines some of the potential difficulties Japanese ESL/EFL speakers experience when conversing across cultures. This paper explores how some of the characteristics researchers have ascribed to the Japanese communication style may influence spoken encounters in English. Considering some of the fundamental issues underpinning cross-cultural misunderstandings, this paper offers foreign EFL/ESL teachers of Japanese students some practical suggestions and activities designed to help their learners achieve more fruitful cross-cultural conversations.