Native-Speakerism in Japan

This book examines the challenges faced by native-speaking language teachers, particularly in Japan, highlighting issues of prejudice and discrimination they encounter in educational settings.

The dynamics between native and non-native speaker language teachers have long been a contentious issue in educational settings around the globe. In Native-Speakerism in Japan, the narrative shifts to highlight the perspectives of native-speaking teachers, whose voices have often been overlooked. This thought-provoking volume delves into the complexities of language-based prejudice, particularly focusing on the concept of 'native-speakerism,' which has gained prominence in the context of Japanese English language education.

Traditionally, discussions surrounding language teacher status have centered on the challenges faced by non-native speakers, often pitting them against their native-speaking counterparts. However, Native-Speakerism in Japan challenges this one-dimensional view by illuminating the struggles that native-speaking teachers also endure. The book presents a comprehensive examination of how these educators can become targets of discrimination and bias in their professional environments, thereby enriching the ongoing discourse on equality and fairness in language education.

Through a comparative lens, this volume not only addresses the issues prevalent in Japan but also draws parallels with the Italian educational context. By exploring these diverse settings, Native-Speakerism in Japan offers valuable insights into the broader implications of language-based prejudice, ultimately advocating for a more inclusive approach to language teaching that recognizes the value of all educators, regardless of their linguistic background.