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When the class started and we got our country assignments I was so excited to have Japan as my research topic. I could not wait to get started so after class I rushed home to my computer and Googled the phrase "teaching English in Japan." My enthusiasm quickly turned into anxiety when the search yielded precisely 3,010,000 websites. Whoa Nelly! I realized immediately that the task that lay ahead of me was not going to be simple. However, after narrowing my search to certain key phrases like "job opportunities in Japan," "living conditions in Japan," and "working conditions in Japan," I was able to whittle the number of sites down to a much more manageable number of fifty-five. Of that fifty-five I am going to highlight the best sites - what I consider to be the top ten. When I say the "best" I am referring to the sites that I found to contain the most comprehensive material combined with ease of use.
One of the best sites that I found for teachers interested in teaching English in Japan was the ELT News.com (English Language Teaching) website. The site provides current news and issues that relate directly to those teaching overseas. I found this website to be a wealth of information for those who are already in field of English language teaching as well as those looking to enter into it. In my opinion, resources like these are worth their weight in gold; especially, when you find yourself in a place where you are "the foreigner." Another excellent resource for English teaching news, current events, and articles is The Teaching in Japan Page. Among many other things, the site contains a link to an online electric journal dedicated to teachers in Japan called Teacher Talk Japan. The journal is a great resource for keeping in touch with or meeting other teachers in Japan. It provides articles that pertain to the current teaching situation in Japan, and it includes some activities and lessons to try in the classroom.
If you are unsure about what teaching is like in Japan then The University of Waikato website entitled Teaching English in Japan is a great site to visit. It provides an excellent overview of the different styles of teaching that are common in Japan and gives the pros and cons of each style. Furthermore, this is also a good place to pick up some general information about finding employment, and obtaining certifications. Another one of my favorites for obtaining information about certifications, paying taxes, health insurance, banking procedures, cost of living expenses, and visa requirements is the AACircle.com website. I like it because it is not too cluttered, which was a real problem with some of the sites. They crammed way too much information onto one page and it was next to impossible to find the information I was looking for. Visually, I liked that this site was bright and easy to navigate. However, the extensive information about teaching English in Japan for prospective English language teachers is the best feature, and the reason it is in the top ten.
After the considerable narrowing process I found the All about Teaching English in Japan website to be one of the best resources for teachers thinking about relocating to Japan. Wow, this site has got it all! Some of the main topics from the index are as follows: "Going to Japan Without a Visa," "Finding a Place to Live," "Interview Tips for ESL Jobs," and "Compare Top 5 School Salaries," among several others.
Japan Desu! A Practical Guide to Teaching English in Japan is like the Costco of websites dedicated to teaching English in Japan. There are so many choices all neatly bundled and packaged in bulk. Everything a person needs to know about moving to Japan to teach English is there. Japan Desu! looks at the different types of teaching opportunities offered in Japan such as chain schools, independent schools, and private teaching. It briefly discusses the different types of English language teaching common to Japan like, conversational English, English for children, English for examinations like the TOEFL or TOEIC, and Business English or English for special purposes. The site gives answers to some frequently asked questions such as, "How do I start?" and "Do I need to speak Japanese?" among others. The site also includes some general information about five of the biggest and most popular cities in Japan: Fukuoka, Kyoto, Mount Fuji, Tokyo, and Yokohama.
The Transitions Abroad website contains numerous articles written by teachers who have taught in Japan. The site provides valuable about many of the major English language schools in Japan (The JET Program, AEON, NOVA, and GEOS), as well as some of the smaller schools (WinBe, Grandom, GABA, and ECC).
While searching for resources to help people find an EFL/ESL job in Japan I found the Japan FAQ: Secrets on Teaching in Japan EFL/ESL website. The site contains experiences and insights from those who have been there about the living conditions in Japan that many others have left out. The section called "The Japan FAQ: Know before you go" is a good place to start. English Tree Japan is an extensive website that provides a wealth of information and support for teaching in Japan. The site includes an online application for overseas applicants as well as a list of current job openings.
And lastly, I just had to include the website that dubs itself "The mother lode of Japan job info" Jobs in Japan.com, and they were not kidding. All you have to do is click the link called EFL/ESL & Teaching under the heading, "Japan Job Ads" and you will be directed to a page with more English language schools than you can shake a stick at. Click EFL/ESL & Teaching under the heading Candidate ads and you can post a little blurb about yourself, your experience, and the job you are looking for on the job board. There are a number of current listings from people around the globe in addition to message boards dedicated to students and teachers looking to teach or receive private English language lessons.
Overall, the quest for resources on teaching English in Japan was intense. With so many websites to choose from it was at times a bit overwhelming. With that being said, the results indicate that finding a job in Japan is quite easy. There are ample opportunities for native English language speakers with varying degrees of skills to go to work almost immediately. They can go to Japan and find a job once they are there, or they can let a language school do all the groundwork for them. Of course, there are pros and cons to each method, but ultimately it was nice to learn that English language teachers have so many choices. In the end I was able to narrow the search to contain only the most relevant information and compile it is such a way to make it easier for others to find information about living and teaching in Japan.
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121sensei.com
For language teachers who are already teaching in Japan interested in teaching private lessons for the
extra income or the experience. The site contains information about teaching resources, top 10 tips for
English language teachers, frequently asked questions, and links to related sites.
ELT News
Designed specifically for teachers in Japan. This website is a wealth of information for those who
are already in field of English language teaching or for those looking to enter into it. Website
provides a plethora of resources, articles, news, and related links. Both the website and job listings
are current and updated daily.
Guide for foreign nationals working in Japan
The guide for foreign nationals working in Japan site provides very interesting information about
working in Japan as a foreign national. It includes details on labor contract and insurance, wages,
legal working hours, overtime, holidays and annual paid leave, protection for working women (women not
required to work during their menstrual cycle), social insurance, the immigration act, and foreign
language consulting and consulting institutions.
James English School
English language school in Japan that hires teachers with or without a TEFL certificate. Website provides
information about hiring, successful candidates, teacher requirements, working attire (dress code) for
male and female teachers, salaries, benefits, school locations, and teacher’s testimonials.
Nova Group
Information about teaching at NOVA from positions and schedules, types of lessons, housing, salaries,
training, and testimonials. Also provided links with information about living and working in Japan.
O-Hayo Sensei
Newsletter for teachers seeking jobs in Japan. Newsletter provides up to date job listings with the
current exchange rates, a classified ads section that includes announcements, teaching resources such
as books and materials, schools for sale, jobs wanted, and traditional Japanese crafts for sale.
Orangutan English
Teacher/student service in Japan. The site links teachers with students in Japan for private instruction.
Also provides links to some of Japan’s top websites.
Teacher Talk Japan
Online journal dedicated to teachers in Japan. Contains links to related sites, articles on classroom
based research and activities, current ESL news, and upcoming events.
Teaching English Conversation in Japan
Teaching English conversation in Japan by Mark D. Offner of the Aichi Institute of Technology in Toyota,
Japan. The article discusses topics such as learning through use and "real world" situations.
It provides excellent information about teaching conversational skills to ESL students for newer teachers to the field.
Teaching English in Japan
Website and blog of a male teaching high school English in Japan. This page offers unique and useful
insight about what to expect upon arriving in Japan.
The Teaching in Japan Page
Comprehensive list of resources, articles, and links to related sites. It includes a teaching in Japan
mini quiz with an answer key to test your general knowledge of Japan.
University of Waikato
University of Waikato provides an extensive list of resources and index of articles for teachers looking
for work in Japan. The site provides an overview of the different styles of teaching that are common in
Japan and gives the pros and cons of each style. Also provides general information about finding
employment, obtaining certifications, and links to English language schools.
How to teach English in Japan
WikiHOW.com provides valuable information about teaching for the Jet Program or any of the other major
English language schools in Japan. The page is laid into sections so that it is easy to navigate and
read quickly. The following is a list of the four sections offered on the site: Steps, Tips, Warnings,
and What You Will Need.
AACircle
Extensive information about teaching English in Japan for prospective English language teachers.
Provides a list of resources as well as information on obtaining certifications, paying taxes, and
details visa requirements. There is also an online application.
All about Teaching English in Japan
Articles and resources on Japan including an extensive list of links to related topics. Sections
include, Going to Japan Without a Visa, Compare top 5 School Salaries, NOVA and AEON Interview Tips,
Resume Tips, Finding a Place to Live, among several others.
Austrian American Educational Commission
This page is part of the website of the Austrian American Educational Commission, and organization
whose purpose is to “promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the
people of other countries” (quote extracted from about us section on the website).
Consular Affairs
Consular Affairs is an excellent site for Canadians interested in teaching in Japan. The site outlines
the different types of schools one can expect to find in Japan. There is information on topics such
as finding a job in Japan with a list of links to job hunting resources. Issues such as entry and exit
requirements, contracts, what to do before you leave, cultural issues, accommodations, income tax, and
medical insurance, among others are discussed in detail.
United States Embassy in Japan
States Embassy in Japan is very comprehensive and provides a great deal of support to Americans abroad.
The homepage includes the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of some agencies there to assist
foreigners in need of help. The resource section contains links for important services such as doctors,
lawyers, schools, churches, employment, and even detectives. The site also contains information about
what to do if you get married or have a baby in Japan.
Japan Desu! A Practical Guide to Teaching English in Japan
Resource for teaching and living in Japan. The site looks at the different types of teaching opportunities
offered in Japan such as chain schools, independent schools, and private teaching. It briefly discusses
the different types of English language teaching common to Japan like, conversational English, English
for children, English for examinations like the TOEFL or TOEIC, and Business English or English for
special purposes. The site gives answers to some frequently asked questions such as, “How do I start?”
and “Do I need to speak Japanese?” among others. The site also includes some general information about
five of the biggest and most popular cities in Japan: Fukuoka, Kyoto, Mount Fuji, Tokyo, and Yokohama.
So you want to teach English in Japan?
A different perspective on living and teaching English in Japan. The author’s opinion, while slightly
cynical is filled with honesty and a great deal of helpful information and insight into life in Japan.
JALT: The Japan Association for Language Teaching
Non-profit organization dedicated to the international betterment of language teaching and acquisition.
The website provides information about membership to JALT, puts teachers in touch with hundreds of other
teachers with similar interests, and provides a network for teachers to share and exchange information.
Japan FAQ: Secrets on Teaching in Japan EFL/ESL
Resource on looking for an EFL/ESL job in Japan. The site contains a lot of experiences and insights
about the living conditions in Japan that many others have left out. Provides a section called “The Japan
FAQ: Know before you go.”
Japan-Guide.com
Resources for teaching in Japan. Here you will find articles on conversation schools, the JET Program,
and languages other than English. You will also find links to related topics such as working in Japan,
immigration, and living costs. The website as a whole is full of useful information and is the one
stop shop for all things related to Japan.
Geocities
Lists a number of English language schools in Japan, related articles about teaching overseas, in addition
to other sites with useful information for teachers interested in going to Japan.
Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Detailed information about the Visa requirements for Japan.
Japan National Tourist Organization
Useful resources to anyone interested in visiting Japan. The Essential Info section covers topics
such as money, visa information, health care, customs, emergency info, climate, time differences,
business hours and holidays, and electricity. Information about foreign embassies and consulates
in Japan also provided here.
English Job Maze
General information for those interested in teaching in Japan. It is easy to navigate and includes
concise explanations and information on the costs of living, average teaching salaries, Visa requirements,
and misc. tips and tricks. Drawback: many of the links on the last page are no longer available.
Jimbo’s English Teaching in Japan Blog
Jimbo’s English Teaching in Japan Blog is a personal blog and website of an EFL teacher in Iwate, Japan.
It is full of interesting stories and personal insight.
Lonely Planet
The Lonely Planet website is a world guide with articles, links and resources for visiting Japan.
Overseas Digest the Life and Times of Americans Abroad
List of articles about teaching overseas. The index has links to topics related to jobs, moving,
insurance, finances, calls & phones, property, and overseas life.
Stanford University J-Guide
Web portal for Japanese resources. This is a good source for living in Japan.
Transitions Abroad
Written by a freelance writer with experience in teaching ESL abroad. This site offers information
about many of the major English language schools in Japan (The JET Program, AEON, NOVA, and GEOS),
as well as some of the smaller schools (WinBe, Grandom, GABA, and ECC). The site offers articles,
key resources, and links to related topics about teaching in Japan.
U.S. Department of State division
of Consular affairs
Comprehensive information on living and relocating to Japan. Includes up to date travel warnings,
information on disease control as well as family, health, and safety issues related to travel to and
within Japan. Extensive links to related resources and other governments websites such as, The White
House and The Department of Homeland Security.
AEON
English language school in Japan. This is an all-inclusive site with information about teaching for
their program as well as links to related sites. The site is easy to navigate, very clear, and up to date.
Amity
English language school that specializes in teaching to children. The site contains information about
recruiting locations for prospective teachers. It gives details about application requirements and
information about their schools around Japan. The site discusses what to expect from life at Amity and
in Japan, in addition to the curriculum and instruction details of their schools.
Berlitz Japan
Berlitz is a major English language school with locations worldwide and multiple locations throughout
Japan. The site offers information about career opportunities with their schools. It details important
information about visa requirements, hiring procedures, teaching contracts, getting started, and how to apply.
English Tree Japan
Wealth of information and support for teaching in Japan. The site includes an online application for
overseas applicants as well as a list of current job openings.
ESL Jobs.com
List of current job listings for teaching English in Japan. Most of the available jobs on this site
are offered by smaller, independent schools; thus, the qualification requirements, salaries, benefits,
and housing vary from position to position.
ESL Job Project
A website made by ESL teacher for ESL teachers. The site provides information on getting a job, visa
requirements, embassy information, tax information, things to know about Japan, and other helpful
information such as things to bring, flights, currency converter, and a links to related resources.
Footprints Recruiting
Company website for ESL job placement agency offers extensive information about their services and why
to use a recruiter in lieu of finding a job on your own. The site provides information about applying
for a job and the criteria for teachers. The site also offers good information about what to do upon
arriving in Japan. Site provides a job board with a complete and up to date list of available jobs.
In addition, the page offers links to 82 different lesson plan sites that include an extensive of list
of activities that have been tried and proven to work.
Four Seasons Language School and Cultural Center
Employment information for the Four Seasons Language School and Cultural Center. The site gives information
about the school (and links to their competitor’s sites AEON, GEOS, and NOVA) for comparison shopping.
It lists employment opportunities, qualification requirements, and general info on teaching in Japan.
Geos Language Corporation
English language school with more than 510 schools in Japan. Geos has offices in Canada and England. This
website provides very detailed information about the school, their methods, their compensation system, and
their reputation. The FAQ page is informative and answers many key questions for newer or first time teachers
heading to Japan. The site also offers testimonials from teachers who have taught at their schools.
Happy English Club
Small, at-home type of English language school conveniently located in North Sakae, near Hisaya Oodori
subway station in downtown Nagoya. The school specializes in English language courses for children and
young adults ages 2-16. Offers information about their company, teaching in Japan, the criteria needed
to teach at their school, and life in Japan. There are also online applications for teachers.
Interac
Company that sub-contracts assistant English language teachers to public schools overseas. Website
provides background on the company, information about teaching in Japan, requirements for overseas
applicants, and applications and interview locations for serious inquiries.
Japan English Teacher
Up-to-date job listings for English teachers in Japan.
Jobs in Japan
Website calls itself "The mother lode of Japan job info." Click the link called EFL/ESL & Teaching
under the heading, Japan job ads and you will be directed to a page with more English language schools than
you will know what to do with. Click EFL/ESL & Teaching under the heading Candidate ads and you can post a
little blurb about yourself, your experience, and the job you are looking for on the job board. There are a
number of current listings from people around the globe. There are a couple of message boards dedicated to
students and teachers looking to teach or receive private English language lessons. The site includes a number
of links to related sites.
Teaching English in Japan
Directory for teachers seeking employment in Japan. The site includes advice on finding a job, job classifieds,
information on labor issues, taxes for expatriates, and visa requirements. Provides links to related employment
websites including one that lists blacklisted universities to avoid.
UCI International Opportunities Program
Called Best Bets for Teaching Abroad, contains an organized list of websites about teaching overseas and
other helpful information about the most well known English language schools around the world.
US Embassy
Provides a link to PDF file with a directory of important telephone numbers and addresses for the main English
language schools in Japan.
Saxoncourt
Teacher placement agency based in England. This site offers an extensive list of links related to teaching
English in Japan; however, research shows that this agency hires mainly British teachers for Shane English
schools in Japan. Thus, as an American or Canadian, this is a good site to visit for information, but it
is not likely that you will get a job through this agency.
Smith’s English School
English language franchise school located in Japan. This link takes you directly to the teaching jobs available
at Smith’s with and includes detailed job descriptions with the requirements and qualification needed.
Teach Abroad Programs
Comprehensive information about studying and teaching abroad. Teach abroad resources include most recent job
postings, information about weekend and online TEFL certification programs, currency converter, and a Japanese
travel guide.
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Information shown on this website is the result of a collaborative effort by Dr. Rod E. Case and the EDS491/691 Special Topics in Teaching English
as a Second Language Class, Wintermester, 2007. |
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