Hey everyone, my name is Margaret, and I am a CIR in Kameoka. The Kameoka Exchange Center holds an English event called a Global Session once a month, and I am trying to get more people involved with it.
But what is a Global Session? A Global Session is like an eikaiwa except there are no teachers and no students. There are only participants. Each month, we ask one native English speaker to write a one to two page article on ANYTHING they choose. Then, they come to the session, and we have an open discussion. The event is designed to help get Japanese people more comfortable with sharing their opinions. Everyone is there because they want to be there, and no one has to speak unless they have something to say. That is part of what makes this event great. There is no pressure.
We have had people from various backgrounds participate, and I am hoping to get more people involved. If anyone would be interested in writing an article, please let me know (mrmann1124@gmail.com). You would be compensated for your travel and you would receive a small payment for your participation.
Also, I have created a website for this event and have also started a video blog so that people can use the site to work on listening comprehension. If you have any advanced students who would like to study more, you can give them the url.
No related posts.
The unofficial Kyoto JET online magazine is posting on behalf of the greater good.
So, I hate to be a downer, but as this is not a JET sponsored event, participation may violate the terms of some JET contracts. So, make sure your BOE will not disapprove of participation before you sign up.
Jarrad makes a very good point, but I will say that we have had many JETs participate and it has not been a problem. I believe that JET contracts prohibit JET members from holding outside employment whereas a one time “gift” for participation is not viewed as violating the contract in most cases. As the Global Session is a one time thing it is not considered “outside employment.” (you can actually participate more than once, though it would be several months apart).
If you are concerned you should definitely check with your BOE. The people who run this event are Japanese but they all speak very good English and are very familiar with the JET program.
Also the URL was not posted in the article (sorry about that) globalsessionreport.wordpress.com
I’ve been a guest at the Global Session twice and attended a few more. They’re kind of fun, just sitting around talking. It’s always interesting to hear the attendees’ opinions about their home culture. I promote this. Take note, folks: this is worth your time.