The use of silence by Japanese EFL learners

Harumi, Seiko

Abstract

This paper is a study of the use of silence by Japanese
learners of English in cross-cultural communication during
a transitional time of globalization. It has frequently been
pointed out that Japanese learners of English tend to
show a passive attitude and remain silent in class. On the
other hand, in the EFL field, for several years now, this
phenomenon has been linked to the impact of globalization.
It, therefore, has been pointed out that Japanese learners
at present are more outgoing and express themselves more
in communication. This study looks at the use of silence by
Japanese EFL students in relation to their cultural values
and also at its relationship to globalization. It also considers
how cross-cultural misunderstandings can be avoided in a
pedagogic context. To this end, this study draws on insights
from the interpretation of the use of silence by learners from
a socio-cultural perspective.

Citation

Harumi, S. (2002). The use of silence by Japanese EFL learners

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Apr 13, 2002
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2002
• Deposit Date: Jan 5, 2022
• Journal: Proceedings of PAC3: the 3rd in the series of Pan-Asian Conference at JALT 2001, the 27th Annual International conference
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Pages: 27-34
• Publisher URL: https://jalt-publications.org/archive/proceedings/2001/027.pdf
• Additional Information: Additional Information : ISBN: 9784901352048