Meiji Gakuin University | Japan|www.meijigakuin.ac.jp/en/

Share a short description about your company:  

A large private university in downtown Tokyo.

What are the key trends you believe have the power to transform the way we learn?

There are several technologies and innovations that are having a strong and positive impact on improving the way we learn. That said, in the field of second language learning at least, real success usually only occurs when the application of these technologies are made in conjunction with well thought out pedagogy that is based on strong empirical research.

The theme of EdTechXEurope 2018 is ‘Eternally Learning’. What does eternal learning mean to you?

In the field of second language learning, one area I've put a lot of effort into relates to creating tools, materials and platforms which promote online extensive reading (i.e. reading a lot of materials graded specifically to the learners level), all with a mind towards developing learning environments, learning paths, and self-motivation which lead to long-term, life-long readers.

What should the rest of the world learn about EdTech in your country?

The interesting thing about Japan is that though it is quite advanced technologically, it still lags behind many other countries in its willingness to adopt those technologies for learning. One of the things I enjoy about my work is that I've become a kind of evangelist for promoting the use of technology in the language learning classroom.

Why is it important for all players in the EdTech ecosystem to continuously connect, network and learn from each other?

It's an exciting, dynamic space that we are working in, with many interesting problems that need to be solved. More often than not, the best and most innovative solutions to these problems are the result of people from different fields, areas of expertise and passion coming together at events like this to share ideas and brainstorm new approaches.

How does your current role allow you to make a difference to education and learning space?

As an expert in corpus linguistics, technology and language learning, and language learning pedagogy I am able to teach and inspire aspiring language teachers at my school as well as assist governments, boards of education, schools, publishers and startups around the world. It's a busy but extremely rewarding and fulfilling career.

Who would you like to meet at the event?

Other educational entrepreneurs and those interested in online second language learning.

When you think about joining London EdTech Week and EdTechXEurope Summit this year, what are you looking forward to?

Meeting, talking to, learning from, and brainstorming with as many people as possible.

Join Charles and our 100+ thought leader speakers at EdTechXEurope 2018 on 19 June 2018 - reserve your place now >>