Introduction

Unfortunately, as team teachers one of the biggest problems may arise before you even utter a single syllable in class: poor communication.  How effectively you communicate with your JTEs will determine how well you can both do your jobs. As members of a team, it is important that you maintain open lines of communication with each other, and provide enough information on your situation and expectations. Feedback is key.

はじめまして (Hajimemashite)

When you first meet your HRT/JTE(s), try to establish a friendly relationship; there may be a lot of nerves on both sides. After you’ve gotten off on the right foot, here are some things you may want to share with each other:

• Individual Goals: What thoughts and ideas do you both have about team teaching classes?
• Team-Teaching Goals: What can you agree on, plan together, and compromise on for classes? How often will you teach together?
• Roles: Does your JTE expect you to be a strictly T2 assistant, or a T1 that they support? What are you comfortable with? What materials are you expected to prepare, and what time will have to do so?
• Goals for Students: What are the school’s expectations for curriculum/outcomes? What do you both want the students to get from TT classes? Will it be strictly textbook work, or more fun and culture-based classes to give the students a break during the week?

You will want to make sure you have a clear understanding of how the class/school is run, what your role and responsibilities are, and how you can work together. Remember that you will have to be the one who seeks this information out. Proactivity is key in all aspects of your job as an ALT. Establishing a good relationship and making clear each others’ expectations and goals will give you the best start for team teaching!

You also want to make sure you can readily contact your JTEs/supervisor(s) in the event of an emergency, schedule change, or sharing information/resources. Be sure to ask early on for the school number, their contact number/LINE contact, or email address (depending on what method you both prefer).

The need to know

Here are a few things you should ask about in the first few meetings with your team-teacher or whoever is in charge at your school/BoE:

• Class Schedule: how many classes per week, who will you teach with, etc.
• Regular Schedule Changes: If possible, get a copy of the yearly calendar so you can be aware of irregular timetables, events, etc.
• Content: what textbooks are you using, what type and amount of classes/activities are you expected to make, etc.
• Other Useful Information: location and how to use the copy machines or printer(s), staff changing/tatami rooms, how to order bento lunch (SHS), the staff kitchen and its equipment, etc.

Troubleshooting

Sometimes things just don’t work out. This could be simply due to your HRT/JTE being very busy and unable to make time for a meeting with you, or forgetting about a schedule change. Or, unfortunately, communication with a particular teacher may constantly seem difficult and as though you aren’t understanding one-another. Try to stay optimistic and proactive. Sometimes we have to take a step back and look at how we can change our actions to alleviate the situation.

Communication Tips for Troubled Times

Be proactive. Initiate conversations. Don’t hope things will fix themselves. Be polite and try different avenues of communication. If direct contact is not possible, try email or leaving a note.  If you are away, try calling your team-teacher from another school. Being polite is important, but don’t let your point get lost in the nice words

If you’re not sure about something – ask.

Use all available time to keep on the same page and give feedback. Talk to you TT before, during, or after class. Sometimes even a quick question can make a difference.

Make suggestions in a form of a question, e.g. “What if we…” “Do you think we could…” “What about if we…” “Have you noticed…” or make indirect suggestions, for example, “I wonder if the boys would be more quiet it if we separated them,” or “So-and-so is always reading in class, I wonder why. Does he read in all his classes?”

Don’t under estimate the power of social niceties. When you are at an enkai go over and pour someone a drink. Be humble and approachable. By subscribing to the social norms you are showing your willingness to a get along in that culture. Also, don’t underestimate the power that omiyage can have. If you have trouble with a coworker, bring them a nice treat next time you go on vacation. They are socially obligated to at least ask about your trip, which can be your foot in the door.

Don’t just listen to what is being said, listen to how it is being said. Often times, Japanese suggestions or requests are coded into questions or seemingly irrelevant dialogue, e.g. “Oh, you have a nose ring.” Translation: You should avoid wearing your nose ring at school. “You must be very sleepy today.” Translation: Tomorrow, be sure to be here on time. “Aren’t you busy now?” Translation: Get off of Facebook.

Final note

Starting off well and maintaining active and positive communication with your JTEs can not only make your work easier, it can start relationships that extend beyond school. You may often find yourself outside your comfort zone, but pushing yourself to new limits is part of the reason you’re here, after all! An ALT’s job description is flexible enough that you will most certainly get out of it what you put in. As with any job there is a learning curve, but there is ample opportunity for fulfillment and growth.