Q1.What is the JLLSSTC Learning Support Guideline?

A.This is the document that outlines what we believe to be how learning support can be administered to respond to situational needs. It specifies the kind of content and methodology required, classifies Japanese language proficiency of non-native learners into different levels and describes how Japanese language proficiency may be tested, how support may be given to learners, and how persons may be trained to give such support.

Q2.What is the JLLSSTC Proficiency Test?

A.This is a test that consists of an interview and a written examination that describes what the candidate's proficiency of the Japanese language enables him to do. For the non-native learner, this is an indicator of his command of the language useful in determining what and how he would need to learn. For the native speaker interacting with the learner, this test provides a point of reference that allows him to rethink how he should communicate with and give support to the learner.

Q3.What do you mean by "JLLSSTC Proficiency Level"?

A.This is one of the seven levels from Level 0 (Pre-Instruction) to Level 6 (Competent User) as specified by the "Testing Standards for Japanese Language Proficiency", which is well understood by all persons involved in JLLSSTC. JLLSSTC currently has specific standards for assisting learners in Levels 0 to 2, and plans to expand these standards to meet the needs of learners of all Levels in the future. Look under "About the System" for further details.

Q4.What is meant by "Assistance Required" with respect to the JLLSSTC Proficiency Levels?

A.This refers to the level of proficiency at which native speakers need to make allowances for the non-native speaker during everyday conversation. Such allowances may include speaking slowly, using simple language, using gestures, pictures and writing on paper. A learner in this category may be considered unable to express his needs, and relies on the native speaker's initiative to participate in society.

Q5.Who are eligible for the program?

A.The primary audience of the System are persons identified to be in Levels 0 and 1 through the JLLSSTC Proficiency Test. The System bears the cost of providing Japanese language support to persons in these Levels, including the cost of involving Program Coordinators and Japanese Language Partners as may be required. Persons identified to be in Level 2 and above may receive similar services, but any cost incurred would be borne either by the organizer of the Japanese Language Classroom or the learner himself.

Q6.How do I become a Program Coordinator?

A.Contact us with your (1) full name, (2) address (city/ward/area), (3) telephone number, (4) available days and times with the subject "Application for Program Coordinator" through one of the methods listed in "Contact Us". You will need to participate as a Japanese Language Partner for a specified period, and the attend the Program Coordinator Course (scheduled twice a year), after which you will be matched to a Classroom. Follow-up courses and Program Coordinator forums are also organized for Program Coordinators as part of the support provided by the System.

Q7.How do I become a Japanese Language Partner?

A.Just contact us with your (1) full name, (2) address (city/ward/area), (3) telephone number, (4) available days and times with the subject "Application for Japanese Language Partner" through one of the methods listed in "Contact Us", and you can immediately start participating at any Japanese Language Classroom available. Japanese Language Classrooms also organize Japanese Language Partner Courses and Follow-up Courses which you are highly encouraged to attend.

Q8.How can I get you to start a new Classroom?

A.If you are writing on behalf of your company, you may write to us with the subject "Request for new Japanese Language Classroom in my company". A System Coordinator will then arrange to meet with you and your members to decide on details such as day, time, venue and the period of operation. The JLLSSTC Proficiency Test will be used to gauge the prospective candidates' proficiency levels and help finalize the number of persons attending the Classroom. A Program Coordinator and Japanese Language Partners will then be recruited and assigned, and Japanese classes will start. You may also write to us as an individual to request for a similar arrangement to set up a Classroom in your area of residence.

Q9.How much will it cost to start and operate a Classroom?

A.The main costs related to the operation of a Classroom are the Program Coordinator's remuneration (compensation and transport), rental costs for the venue (including utilities) and educational materials (including photocopying). For classrooms catering to learners whose Proficiency Levels as identified by the JLLSSTC Proficiency Test fall under the "Assistance Required" category, the Program Coordinator's remuneration and the cost of educational materials will be borne by the System. Costs of consultations and discussions with the System Coordinator leading up to the start of Japanese classes, including the System Coordinator's remuneration, the cost of administering the JLLSSTC Proficiency Test, are borne by the System, regardless whether these activities finally result in classes being started.