グローバル学科ニュース

Japanese students often lack confidence speaking in public. They are often shy in expressing their personal opinions, especially if they differ from others. But in a 21^st century international workplace, it is important for Japanese university students to be able to do both. How can they accomplish this?

The new Global Studies program (starting in April of 2025) will help students achieve these two goals. It will place public speaking and debate at the center of English-language learning. With the advent of generative AI and omnipresent language translator applications, the curriculum believes it is even more important to gain fluency in speaking and making logical arguments.

One of the benefits of debate and public speaking is that they are activities that also enhance academic content mastery. To do well, they require both individual study and groupwork. Contrary to popular image, speaking in front of an audience is only one part of the process: it is as much about team-play as solo oratory. The large majority of Global Studies English language course time is therefore spent learning how to discuss problems with classmates, investigate academic issues more deeply, and construct effective arguments. Through repetition, students gain confidence in their English speaking and greater understanding of key academic topics related to Global society and international relations.

The new program also hope that students will make new friends and enjoy themselves too!

(Photo Caption: KUISs Students Studying English through Debate preparation and practice. Photo: Shorb)