The "Immersive English Experience for Study-Abroad Preparation - Winter Program" was held at British Hills in Fukushima Prefecture, with the aim of leading to short- to mid-term study abroad programs. The program was originally scheduled for six days and five nights, but due to the spread of the COVID-19, it was changed to a one-day program.
Here are comments from the students who participated in the program, including their classes and their future goals.
<Study Report>
1. Mr. Tsubasa Iwamoto (a third-year student)
My goal in joining this program was two things, one is improving my English skill and the other is expanding my value of life. I was only able to experience it for one day because of COVID-19, but I gained a lot of things from it.
Firstly, I could notice that my English skill works. To be honest, I was nervous whether I could speak English well or not though when I came there, I was excited to be in an environment where I could only speak English. So, I decided not to worry about grammatical errors and just enjoy the situation. Through this program, I realized that the passion to express my feelings is the most important domain of conversation.
Secondly, I felt from the teacher there the drastic idea that there are multiple answers, and each should be respected. I think that Japanese people tend to look for a single correct answer. But it is so rare to exist just one answer through living our life. On the other hands, the teachers mainly respected the conclusions we came to in class, rather that asking for one prepared answer. I admire this thinking.
The first and second one experiences that helped me achieve my goals respectively. Of course, the interior and exterior of the building were beautiful, and the library was a comfortable place where I wanted to stay forever. I feel proud to have had the experience of taking classes in English with great teachers in a place like this. I would like to use this experience as a new force for my English learning.
2. Mr. Masahiro Matsumoto (a second-year student)
We got on the bus at 6:40 and it took us about an hour and a half to get British Hills, which looked like medieval England. However, when we checked Google Map, I found out that we were in Fukushima Prefecture.
We first visited the Manor House. It was displayed many expensive and great works of art. In the Queen's Room and the King's Room, there is much elegant furniture, which has the atmosphere of medieval England. And the library has about 1600 publications.
After the tour, the orientation was held in the Ballroom, where Mr. Rhys explained the concept and how to spend time at British Hills.
After the orientation, the first class was about social media. In that class, we gave some examples of social media and discussed the social media that we often use in our groups. After that, the group thought about the content of the interview and interviewed the other group members. During the interview, we could not only ask the questions we had thought beforehand, but also flexibly ask the questions based on their answer.
The second class was about "Japan". First, we discussed famous things in Japan, and then we guessed famous things in Japan foreign people knew. In addition, I was able to learn about the cultural differences between Japan and other countries. For example, when we greet people in Japan, we bow each other. In other countries, they greet each other with a handshake. In this class, I learned that the famous things in Japan that foreign people know are different from the things Japanese think. I also learned that there are differences in culture and customs between Japan and other countries. Therefore, I thought it was important to have a variety of viewpoints and not just be bound by the ideas of myself or my own country.
At lunchtime, we ate a delicious buffet at the Refectory. Everything was delicious, but the chicken was particularly tasty.
In the afternoon, the third class was about SDGs. SDGs means Sustainable Development Goals. In this class, we learned about the 17 goals of SDGs, and discussed the places related to the 17 goals. Through the class, I thought that in order to achieve these goals, people need to work together, and we will be able to realize a sustainable world. I also want to work what I can, such as separating garbage and saving electricity.
The last class was about critical thinking. Critical thinking is the ability to think clearly and rationally. By acquiring this ability, we can think from a wide range of perspectives, which is essential for being active on a global scale. I also learned about the difference between facts and opinions, and learned about the RAVEN method. RAVEN method is the way that analyzes information from five aspects of Reputation, Ability to see, Vested interest, Expertise, and Neutrality. In the class, I was able to solve examples from each perspective. I had never heard of this thinking method, so I was able to understand it in this class deeply. I want to use what I learned in this class when I write my thesis.
This training was only one day, but my senses were stimulated and I learned many things. So, it was a very fulfilling day. Therefore, I would like to remember what I learned from this training, use it in the future and improve my English skills more.
3.Ms. Angelita Gozaly (a second-year student)
The Immersive English Experience for Study-Abroad Preparation program in British Hills was one of the most memorable experiences I have had in the University of Aizu. It was my second time participating in the program, and like last time, I think it was a great chance to get to know a lot of new friends, especially the Japanese students. I enjoyed talking to the Japanese students in English, and I really respect their enthusiasm and motivation to improve their English-speaking skills. I am also happy to get to know the teachers in British Hills. They were very friendly and supportive, and they encouraged everyone to speak up in classes, which in my opinion is a very important key to help everyone improve their speaking skill.
Throughout the program, we had several English lessons, and it was all very fun. Unfortunately, this time the program was changed to only one day, so we could not enjoy more fun activities together. Even though the program was only one day, the lessons we had were very diverse, from serious lesson about critical thinking, to some more fun lesson like designing a city and making a social media program. My favorite lesson was the Adventure Series: Sustainable Development Goals lesson, where we learned about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nation, and then we try to design our own city based on those goals. It was fun to discuss with the other friends in my group and also exchange our opinion about how our ideal city would be like. In addition, I also loved the Manor House Tour. It is my second time to go around the Manor House, and I had fun seeing all the rooms and decorations again, while also trying to remember the explanation that I heard about the Manor House last time, and then try to explain it to the other friends who visited the manor house for the first time. Unfortunately, we did not have a lot of chance to experience the British Culture in the program this time. We could not experience learning the table manner and eating the course dinner because of the time limitation. We also did not have time to enjoy some afternoon tea and snacks in the tea house, but I did have a chance to visit in one of our break times, and bought myself some scones which I really like.
To conclude, this program left a deep impression on me. I got to know a lot of new friends, improved my speaking and presentation skills, and also, I got to enjoy the lovely environment for the second time. Additionally, I also experienced being a student assistant again there. I had a lot of fun talking to the other students and discussing about various topics. All the teachers were also very nice and helpful, so everyone could really enjoy the classes. Even though it was tiring because the schedule was quite tight and we have to wake up very early in the morning, I really enjoyed the whole experience and I definitely want to join the program if I have the chance to do it again.
4. Ms. Ayana Akutsu (a first-year student)
I have two reasons I joined in this program. First, to improve my English skills especially speaking skill. I tried to study English by myself, but I didn't have opportunities to use it very much, especially speaking it. Then I knew this program, and I thought I could improve my English ability by joining in it. In addition, I would like to study abroad, however I have never been there. I was worried about it, but I thought the program made my English skills better and I could get experience of English communication without going abroad.
I took four classes in this program. First, I learned about social media. I asked my group members what shows they would like to watch or listen to and made a short video with them. It was interesting.
Second, I learned how to introduce Japan. I made a presentation briefly about Japanese culture with group members in the class. I wasn't used to give a presentation in English, so I was tense. I was also surprised that a lot of Japanese culture wasn't known to foreigners. Moreover, I learned useful grammar in this class. It was helpful when I made a presentation in English for RHIT.
Third, I studied about SDGs. My group members and I discussed a sustainable city and drew it on the paper. I know about SDGs, but it was difficult for me to discuss it in English. After discussing, we made a presentation with other students, but I couldn't do well. I strongly thought my English and presentation skills were weak.
Fourth, I took a critical thinking class. I learned RAVEN Method. It is one of ways to judge whether information is right or wrong. At the end of the class, I judged an advertise was believable according to this method. It wasn't easy, but I thought it is important for my life to think critically.
Generally, I had many points for improvement. First, I couldn't tell others my opinions well. I need to improve not only my English skills but also communication ones. In addition, I couldn't speak less than other students in class, so I should have spoken actively.
Speaking of British Hills, I think it is a wonderful place. I felt as if I were really in UK. Both buildings and interior decoration were excellent. As soon as we arrived there, we looked around manor house, and it was very majestic, so I felt nervous a little. The lunch was also good.
It was regrettable that I learned only one day. I wanted to take more lectures. However, it was a good experience for me. I would like to make use of what I learned and improve my English skills more and more.
5. Mr. Shogo Nosaka (a first-year student)
I took four lessons in this program. Of those four, Mr.Moja's Introducing Japan, which I took in the second hour was very interesting. This is because in this class, I learned about the differences between Japan and overseas and the famous things about Japan overseas by thinking about how Japan feels when viewed from an overseas perspective. For example, in Japan we sort garbage such as burnable garbage, non-burnable garbage, bottles and cans, but overseas there is no such fine sorting, judo is famous as a Japanese sport overseas, and chocolate is given in Japan. I learned that Valentine's Day is not overseas.
You can learn that things that are commonplace in Japan may not be commonplace overseas, and conversely things that are commonplace overseas but not done in Japan can be learned, and there are many more differences in behavior between overseas and Japan due to cultural differences. I thought, so I wanted to go abroad and find out more. And I wanted to be able to teach to foreigners who came to Japan. Also, in this class, I gave a presentation on Japanese culture. Our group made a presentation about Setsubun, but I found it very difficult to explain Japanese culture with a good reason. Through this announcement, I thought that we did not fully understand Japan culture yet, so I wanted to understand Japanese culture well and be able to explain it to foreigners.
After taking this class, I wanted to learn from the differences because they are different, to know how they are different if they are different, and to interact with other countries as well as my own country and to know and understand that country.
6. Mr. Yuki Wako (a first-year student)
We had to make a day trip instead of the six days and five nights we had planned in this British Hills because the COVID19 occurs, this was a shame, but I was able to learn a lot in this small amount of time.
We took four classes on the day trip [Social Media] [Intermediate] [Development Goals] and [The RAVEN Method 1]. Each class was interesting and challenging for me. The class I was most interested in was The RAVEN Method by Mr. Tom. In this class, we learned about critical thinking. I learned that critical thinking is made up of five elements. Reputation, Ability to see, Vested Interest, Expertise, and Neutrality, and know that we need to think about these elements to understand things correctly. Afterwards, we took a quiz to see whether we understood each of these concepts correctly. After solving the quiz, I realized how difficult it is to distinguish facts from opinions. At the end of the class, Mr. Tom performed a wonderful magic trick.
My English skills did not improve dramatically since this was a one-day trip. However, I found something to reflect on after being in an environment where I use English. That was my lack of vocabulary. When I tried to talk to my friends in English, there were several times when I could not remember the words I wanted to say. The words I use for exams are different from the words I use in everyday life, and surprisingly, I couldn't understand the English for things around me. so, I would like to learn more words.
Through this program, I was able to imagine my life spending abroad. I would like to make use of this experience in my future English study. Lastly, I would like to thank all the teachers who organized this program despite the difficulties in COVID19.
7. Ms. Haruki Terushima (a first-year student)
In February 15th, we went to British Hill just a day, but the enjoyment was gathered a lot in this day. The day improved not only our language skills, but also different skills more and more e.g. discussion skill.
The best class which impressed me a lot was about SDGs in 3rd period. Before starting this class, I thought like "maybe it is difficult for me to discuss, I cannot think deeply in Japanese! There is no topic easier?". However, the class was beginning and I found that my thoughts was wrong. Because most activities ware done as like games. Moreover, the games' scores were depending on the team and we could think to get higher scores. Because of that, I could raise my hand a lot and say my opinion. Also, we discussed what we presented in the team and this made us to watch the topic with more aspects. Finally, we made our ideal map associated with SDGs. We chose and said the ideas ourselves. Then discussed how to explain it. This is not one of the passively class, but active class.
I wanted to mention another favorite in British Hills. The food there were awesome. We ate just lunch. They were British meals and you can definitely enjoy to try them. Also, there was a café to get scones. You should go there in the middle of resting time. The café was cute and scones were delicious. There were dinners if we stayed more. I am looking forward to eat them next year.
After this program, I participated the meeting with U.S. university students and EEE-chat. In these activities, I could find myself improving my English skill. Also my discussion skill was improved like I could ask questions more competing with the activities before. It was so surprising me. I wanted to participate with them more.
Unfortunately, it was just a day in this time because of COVID-19. But we could learn more and more skills in this program. I will participate with this program next year and improve my skills.
8. Ms. Kaho Kageyama (a first-year student)
I was able to experience conversation in English only during the day's activities in British Hills. In order to convey what you want to convey through conversations with people in the same group and conversations with instructors in English-only conversations, rather than making correct English sentences and speaking, you will be proactive. I thought it was more important to explain in the words I knew. In many lectures, group work was mainly performed and one presentation was presented. At first, I wasn't confident in making presentations in English in public, and my voice was quiet or I couldn't speak smoothly, but since most of the lectures were presentations, I gradually became public.
I was able to feel that I was getting used to speaking in English. Before experiencing the British Hills program for English-only conversations, I was worried that I could speak well because I was not good at English. However, by experiencing conversation in English only for a day, I have come to find it fun to talk in English and want to experience a little more conversation in English.
British Hills was a place where the world of England was recreated and made me want to experience this world throughout the city. When buying souvenirs from British Hills, there are many points where you can fully experience the world of Britain, such as the hotel man using English to handle the cash register and how to get a lunch buffet. The lecture that left an impression on me was to compare the differences in manners between Japan and overseas with videos. For example, I knew that when I entered the house, I took off my shoes, I didn't take them off, and the manners before and after meals, but in the video, there were more manners I didn't know, and I go abroad. It was just a reference when I was there. For example, in British culture, I was able to learn the manners that are not so familiar to me when I am in Japan, such as not taking a shower before taking a bath and not being sensible about recycling.
I was also impressed by the lecture in which the group gave an interview-style presentation. Group discussions, interviews on common TV shows, conference-style presentations, and finally presentations in front of the class. I talked with the people in the group and assembled the composition, but I was very impressed by the trial and error of the answer to the previous question and the connection of the next question and thinking about the beginning of the first program in English. Having experienced this British Hills, I have come to feel that conversation in English is fun, and I have become strongly motivated to travel abroad and study abroad.
I had wanted to study abroad before I went to British Hills, but I was worried about traveling abroad and studying abroad because I had never been abroad and was not confident in my English-only conversation life. However, I think that I gained a little confidence and the ability to speak in English by experiencing English-only conversation and the world of England at British Hills this time.
9. Mr. Jin Sato (a first-year student)
I was most impressed by Mr. Moja's class at British Hills. The reason for this was that his class had activities that the whole class did together, and he himself was very cheerful. In the beginning, we played a game where the whole class had to list the characteristics of Japan. Everyone had an equal opportunity to speak, and after this game, I was not afraid to speak. The fact that Mr. Moja himself was cheerful also helped to ease the resistance to speaking. This made me realize that a cheerful atmosphere and the first step are important for conversation.
On the other hand, what I found to be a problem this time was listening. If the teacher speaks slowly like in a regular class, I can listen and understand. However, when the teacher spoke at a normal speed like in this class, I found that I could not understand some words. Also, even if I could understand the words, talking would often move on to the next conversation while thinking about the meaning, and I would listen to the next conversation without understanding it. Based on this experience, I realized that I still lacked the ability to understand the meaning of the sentences I heard.
I had some problems at British Hills this time, but I was able to experience a variety of things and had a fulfilling day. I also made friends through some of the classes. I would like to participate again in the next winter if it is possible.
10. Mr. Yudai Takihara (a first-year student)
This time, it was one day experience because of COVID-19, but, I was able to have a very meaningful time.
I moved to the interior in British Hills. I like to see beautiful places. In particular, I have wanted to see western-style and historical buildings. I was glad to see one this time. Lunch was also very delicious. I ate various meals such as pizza and curry and so on.
I worked hard to listen to English and answer some questions in all lessons. In the final lesson, I was able to understand what they said more than before. And, It was difficult for me to present our presentation and discuss a theme with other people because I must speak English but I was able to present and question to be easy to understand for other people in discussion and presentation, some questions for some teachers. So I connected to confidence for the improvement of English.
There are few opportunities for daily conversation due to COVID-19 this time. I wanted to communicate with foreign people and share various information together. It was discouraging for me but, to do that I am going to study hard English for next time. So, I want to go abroad definitely. And, I would like to live in a beautiful place other than Japan in the future.
I connected to confidence for the improvement of English and discovered a new theme and objects through this experience program. So I was able to have a fulfilling day.
11. Mr. Akira Urushida (a first-year student)
This year, we couldn't take full program due to the spread of COVID 19, but I think It was very good experience for me in 3 reasons.
First, I could use English for most of the day. As I hardly get enough time to speak English in weekdays except English lectures and club activities (Hello World!), I think the environment in British Hills was a little bit challenging, but ideal to study English.
Second, I've got accustomed to using English a little bit more than before. Before we went there, perhaps, most of us had the anxiety in common: If I can't answer questions properly and fluently, what should I do? However, instructors were very kind and encouraged us to discuss subjects actively in English. Thanks to this, I could get rid of the anxiety and make progress in English. I think it is the most important thing to overcome the anxiety and to be active to improve my English skills.
Finally, I've got motivated to study English more. I made a lot of mistakes in vocabulary and grammar. Also, sometimes I couldn't understand instructions, but teachers and classmates were tolerant, so I began to be active in class and motivated. I wonder if I get used to using English, I will be able to go through fascinating experiences in the world. I'm looking forward to realizing it!
We've learned not only English but also several subjects such as SDGs, critical thinking, social medias and Japanese cultures seen from foreigners. It was really sensational experience for me. I think what was most important about this program is the environment which enable us to breakthrough the harmful bias, so in order to boost my growth, I hope I can take full program next year.
12. Ms. Runa Kanaya (a first-year student)
First, I am glad that I was able to participate in this program. Also, by participating in this program, I was able to gain valuable experience that I could not get anywhere else. Of course, the classes in English were meaningful, but it was also nice to be able to visit the British Hills.
I've always wanted to go abroad, and I've always wanted to go abroad when I'm a university student, so British Hills gave me a chance to experience what it's like to go abroad. That's how much the British Hills was likes England.
Before I went, I was worried about whether I would be able to understand all the explanations given in English, both inside and outside of class, but the people at the facility and the international students made it easy to understand, so I cloud.
In this program, I took four classes. The first class was about social media, and we made a show as a group. There were three types of shows; interviews questions, discussions, and voxpox questions, and my group made a show based of discussions. I acted as the producer and we discussed the film. There are not many classes where we can learn English in the form of a making a show like this, and I thought that this way I can acquire usable English. In the second class, we made a presentation to introduce Japan, Before making the presentation, we had a class on what is known about Japan in the world and the differences between Japan and other countries. From what the teachers told me, I realized that the Japan I thought I knew in the world was different from what it actually is. After that, we made a presentation about shrines that we cloud introduce to foreigners who do not know about shrines. The third class was about the SDGs. Of course, I knew about the SDGs to some extent, and I had even heard about them in m high school classes. However, I had never learned by drawing, as I did in this class. Even though it was difficult to understand in English, I was able to understand when I translated it into pictures, and by drawing pictures in groups, I was able to hear various opinion. It's good opportunity not only to learn English but also to deepen my understanding of the SDGs. The fourth class was about the RAVEN method. However, the English in this class was a little too difficult for me to fully understand, so I would like to do my own research and study it again.
By participating in this program, I was able to study in an almost English-only environment, similar to studying abroad for the first time. It was a shame that our plans for an overnight stay were changes to a day, but it was the right choice to participate. I would like to actively participate in such opportunities in the future. Also, I was not able to talk to international students very much, so I plan to participate in the Global Lounge activities from my second year.
13. Mr. Ryotaro Takeda (a first-year student)
Through this activity, I was surprised to gain confidence in English in just one day. I think that is the result of actively speaking English because I want to improve my English skills and at the same time. I think that it is fun to interact with people from overseas.
One of the most important and enjoyable times for me was the conversation with the teacher after class. Conversations with teachers outside of class will improve your English skills and at the same time talk about various interesting things such as experiences I do not know, my hometown, and why I came to Japan. What I felt at such an opportunity was kindness. Whenever I have trouble expressing in English and get stuck or use broken English, I always wait until I finish saying it and see what I'm trying to convey. The teacher said, "Your English is easy to hear and you try to understand what I want to say." "If a foreigner speaks in Japanese, would you do the same?" At that time, I was very convinced and had a good awareness. In this way, I was really glad that I was able to participate in the activities of the day alone. I would like to continue to participate in events where I can actively experience English.
14. Mr. Yuto Sekiguchi (a first-year student)
I am not good at English. I can't speak English well, so I joined this program to get used to it. It was exciting for me to spend time only in English.
In the Social Media lesson, I talked with my friends about Social Media, which I use everyday. It was the first lesson, so it was a bit simple. After that, we made a script for a TV show where we interviewed various people and filmed it. I always get so nervous that I can't speak for myself, but this time I felt more like having fun than being nervous, so I was able to finish without any problems. Some of the other teams improvised half the time, which I found amazing. In the Introducing Japan lesson, we had an activity to explain about Japanese culture. Our team had to explain about the tea ceremony. We didn't have enough time to make notes, but we were able to explain it.
In the Critical Thinking lesson, we learned about the RAVEN Method, which was explained on a slide and then we had to solve a problem. It was very difficult. I think it would have been difficult even if I had learned it in Japanese. However, we were able to solve it while discussing it and referring to other people's opinions.
Although it was a one-day program due to the COVID-19, I think it was a very meaningful experience. I would like to make the most of this experience and learn to speak English better.
15. Mr. Hajime Fukai (a first-year student)
In the first lesson, we created a video for social media. Firstly, we planned the show and made a script for it. It was difficult to tell my idea in English, but we managed to organize the plan. I asked a student from another group to become an interviewee. Then we did an interview with the student and a salesclerk of a souvenir shop "Victorian Alley". We didn't have much time to film, and I don't think it was flawless, but I enjoyed it and we were able to cooperate to create the show.
In the second lesson, we learned how to explain Japanese culture in English. We did some quizzes about Japanese culture. Then we made a presentation to introduce Japanese culture for foreigners. Our group made a presentation about shrines in Japan. We explained the manners and how to visit a shrine. After a presentation, our teacher advised us that we should say "toss a coin" instead of "throw a coin".
We ate lunch after the second lesson. The lunch was so delicious, and I really loved the taste of chicken and curry.
In the third lesson, we learned about SDGs. I had heard of SDGs before, but I had never known about each goal, so I found it interesting. We learned the relation between SDGs and the real world through quizzes. Then we imagined and drew an ideal city to achieve SDGs with my group members and introduced it to other groups.
In the fourth lesson, we learned about critical thinking and the RAVEN method. We watched an advertisement for medicine, and we discussed the problem of it. I learned the RAVEN method for the first time, and I thought that having an ability to identifying beliefs and biases is important to discuss something objectively.
The interior decoration of the Manor House was really like a house in the UK, and it was very impressive. Since I had been interested in the literature of the UK, I enjoyed an atmosphere of the house. I want to visit the UK and see a real manor house someday.
This program gave me a lot of opportunities to communicate with teachers and students, who I had never talked to, in English. I think that was really a great experience for me. I felt nervous in the beginning of the program, but the teachers were very friendly and kind, so I could participate in the classes actively. The group works during class were great opportunities to practice communication in English because I needed to speak actively in order to complete the tasks. Through the activities, I thought that choosing proper words is important to convey my idea accurately, but I found it difficult to come up with the proper word quickly. So, I wanted to train speaking so that I can remember the proper word quickly.
It was unfortunate that the program was shortened this time, but I really enjoyed, and I learned a lot through this program. I had never spoken English that much in a day. As I am going to take the ICTG course in my second grade, I really want to make use of this experience.
16. Mr. Junnosuke Kato (a first-year student)
I went to British Hills on Feb 15. When I arrived it , I thought that it is very beautiful and looks like foreign country. After that we saw the interior. I felt like coming to a luxury hotel. I'm excited. We took some lessons.
I remember some lessons. The first was a class that expressed Japanese culture in English. I was able to know Takoyaki and okonomiyaki. If I am able to study abroad , I want to teach it my friend. Next lessen is teaching Japanese culture to students at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. Our groups decided to tell about shrine in Japan. First, I explained about the famous shrines in Japan , and then I explained how to visit the shrines and fortune telling. RHIT student listened to our presentation with interest. After that it was a good time to discuss each other's hobbies. I was able to take a very good class. I had a lot of experience for the first time in British Hills where I was able to eat a luxurious meal. I'm glad I was able to experience things that I can't do in Japan, using only English all day long. It's a pity that I was able to stay in British Hills for only one day this time, but I'm really glad that I had such a valuable experience. I would like to actively participate if I am able to study abroad for a long period of one year or a short period of two weeks. Thank you!
17. Ms. Risa Kitajima (a first-year student)
I really enjoyed this program. It was a valuable experience for me because it is not often that I can exchange my opinions in English from start to end. It was a little difficult to speak a lot from beginning of this program, but it was fun to think about how to communicate to others within the words I knew.
Since it was a day trip due to Corona, I took four classes at British Hills. The most interesting class of these was the introducing Japan. Because I was able to learn how people from overseas view Japan. In this class, we had a quiz to think about how many foreigners know about typical Japanese things. I live in Japan, so of course I know about Japan. However, I didn't know what is popular in Japan among people live in overseas, and what they imagine when they think of Japan. I was especially surprised to see the Shinkansen come up as a typical Japanese thing. I knew that kimonos and sushi were famous, but it was unexpected to see that the Shinkansen was known as a typical Japanese item and was also quite well known. It was very interesting to see the differences between what Japanese people think of Japan and what people overseas think of Japan.
Although it was only one day, I was able to spend a very meaningful day. By speaking English consciously, I was able to speak English more easily than before. I would like to continue to actively use English and interact with many people.
18. Mr. Nozomi Hashimoto (a first-year student)
This day was amazing. Under these circumstances, it was limited to one day, but I enjoyed it very much and it was a learning experience. I participated in this program with aim of getting used to English. I think I've grown up in this regard.
The first class, Lesson 1(Social Media) was very tense. It was difficult to express what I was thinking in English. And I was afraid of mistakes. However, actively talking with teachers and group members, I have diminished anxiety about mistakes.
Lesson 2(Introducing Japan) was fun. In this class teacher Moja, he is a funny person. He turned the class into a fun atmosphere. Our group decided on the theme of the presentation to the Japanese shrine in this class. Next time was lunch time. Lunch was buffet lunch. At this time, I learned the importance of knowing my limits. After lunch, I went to the shop. Various foreign goods and food were sold. It was fun just to watch. Lesson 3(Sustainable development Goals) was so fun. In this class, we drew a picture of the city that we envisioned and presented it to other groups. I'm not good at drawing, so I had to tell the other person by talking. It was difficult but I was happy when it was transmitted. Lesson 4(Critical Thinking) was interesting. At this time, I was able to speak in English without fear of failure, so I was able to actively convey my thoughts. The content of the class was very interesting.
All the lessons were fun and I thought I speak more English when I left British Hills. Participating in this program I changed my awareness of English. It is not afraid of failure. If I have a chance, I would like to participate again.
19. Mr. Haruki Mochida (a first-year student)
Even though the British Hills program was a one-day trip, there were still many things that I gained that made me glad I went.
For example, in Emma's class on social media, we got to be the ones to create the content, and we had to come up with the actual script and take pictures. We created our own interview articles in proper grammatical English and then proceeded to discuss them. We learned how to make presentations in English. We were sometimes asked to answer questions in interviews while other groups were filming, so we were able to learn more independently than in university classes.
Also, in the critical thinking class, I realized that I was making many mistakes in solving problems. I am now able to show the difference between opinion and fact, and where the basis for my general judgment lies. I felt that the knowledge I learned in this class is essential for those of us living in the information society.
Thanks to the teachers' support, I was able to communicate with them even though I had to use gestures while speaking English. However, I felt that if I were to actually study abroad, I would have to use more precise words to make conversation. I also felt that the most important thing I needed was listening skills. I had been confident in my listening skills, but now I realized how easy it was for the professors at the university to talk to me.
By participating in this program, I found out that I cannot speak English as well as I thought I could. This program made me realize that I can't speak English as well as I thought I could, and it made me want to speak English even more, which is a great motivation for me to learn English in the future. I would like to overcome my weak points before I go to study abroad in the future. I would also like to actively participate in exchanges with international students held at the university to improve my English skills.
20. Mr. Takeshi Okayasu (a first-year student)
I think that this British hills program was a very good experience for me. Unfortunately this time it was a day trip due to COVID-19, but the class and atmosphere were very good so I had a wonderful experience.
Here's what I felt good through this program.
First, I have made a new friendship during this program. All the lessons worked with the people in the same group to solve the problems. Therefor, I was bale to make friends by working together in group for just one day and struggling to solve the same problem.
Second, the lesson which is the goal of sustainable development was very helpful. This class was very interesting for me and I learned what it takes to develop and stabilize society. This allows me to see how important for us what we normally use or see is.
Finally, by participating in this program, I feel that it is very good for those who are aiming to study abroad because they can experience an English only environment.
Participating in this program made me want to study abroad more. This program made me realize that it is important to use English on a daily basis and my motivation to learn English is so high. Moreover, Taking advantage of this experience, I wanted to take good points in TOEIC and do my best to get the profession which I want to be. As I mentioned earlier, I have gained a lot of awareness by participating in this program. These were very important and valuable experiences. I'm really glad I participated in this program.
21. Ms. Ayaka Murota (a first-year student)
It was so fun and a good experience in British Hills although it was only one day. So now, I would like to tell you about my impression of spending in British Hills.
First, it was so fun to take lessons! That's because all students and teacher who I met there were so kindness and easy to talk to. By the way, especially, the most impressive lesson is "Social Media". Our group was type of interviewing some students and teachers. I don't react well after answering our questions. But I wanted to talk with many people by using English before visiting there, so I had a good time.
Second, there are a good view. I didn't believe there are in Japan because it is like I'm abroad. I think it is amazing!! Also, it is delicious the food at British Hills.
I was able to obtain many things after go there. For example, it is important to talk positively when I talk with someone by using English. Although my English skills are not very good, I was able to enjoy lessons by using easy English. My English skills are still not enough. But I improve my skills and I try to have conversations in English with many people.
This program was one-day trip due to COVID-19. That's why we couldn't do a lot at British Hills. But it was a good opportunity. And I was glad to talk with many people thought this program. Also, I really appreciate my teacher's kindness. If I have a chance again like this program, I want to challenge!
22. Mr. Kota Fuse (a first-year student)
I participated in the Immersive English Experience for Study-Abroad Preparation program on February 15. I was able to experience a lot of things. Also, I was able to feel foreign atmospheres and learn cultures of foreign countries in the British Hills.
What impressed me most about lesson was "introducing Japan". This class is in the second period. We watched a video of Japanese people's daily actions in the class. After that, we watched a video of foreign people's actions. After that, we found out difference of their videos. I was able to learn about the differences between Japanese people's actions and other countries people's actions. Also, we thought about what is unique in Japan. After that, we use what is unique in Japan and play a lot of games. I enjoyed playing a lot of games. Also, we planned to introduce Japanese culture to the people at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in the US.
In our group 1-b, we discussed Japanese culture. we planned to introduce the Japanese hot springs. We decided to the etiquette of the hot springs. We discussed and decided which manners were appropriate and came up with six manners. We gave an oral presentation about them in class. I make a speech. After coming back to home from British Hills, I worked with my group 1-b to make a PowerPoint presentation about the etiquette of the Japanese hot springs. We gave our presentation to the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology on February 21. We were able to talk with native speakers from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. We talked about Japanese topics, American topics, and so on.
This program was a very exciting experience for me. By participating in this program, I was able to meet senior students who I can respect and a same grade student who can match my values. I would like to improve my speaking English skill with this friend. Due to the Corona virus, I had to return to Japan on a day trip instead of the six days and five nights trip. I feel very sad. To be honest, I would like to stay longer and enjoyed this program. Because I heard that I could participate in the British Hills program in the summer, I would like to participate in this program. I do not hope to be the same condition as the British Hills program in the winter. I think that this British Hills program was a good opportunity for me in many ways. For example, this program has made me realize that my speaking skills are not very good. Therefore, I would like to improve my English skills. I found my goal. I decide that I become a person who can speak English. There is a lot of time until the summer. When I participate in the next program in the summer, I will be able to speak English. Also, if there is a program that go abroad next year, I would like to participate in this program. I would like to study English every day so that I can improve my English skills for that
23. Mr. Akihiro Komatsu (a first-year student)
I will tell you about two of the most impressive things about the Immersive English Experience for Study-Abroad Preparation Program.
First, it was impressive for me to give a presentation to some foreigners who are not familiar with Japan. I, Ryotaro, and Ayaka did the presentation about Okonomiyaki. It is Japanese traditional food, but almost all foreigners do not know about it. Therefore, this presentation leads some foreigners to know about a new aspect of Japan. This activity affected me. I have done presentations since I was in junior high school. However, I am not good at presenting something because I always feel self-conscious. That is why I do not like presentations. Nevertheless, I tried to present Okonomiyaki to foreigners. They encouraged me to present Okonomiyaki so I could manage to finish our presentation. This experience is important for me to present something. It may help me not to feel self-conscious when I do presentations.
Second, a lesson on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is very impressive for me. In this lesson, we created a city in a paper that achieves some points of SDGs and presented it in front of Group 2. Almost all cities are very crazy. For example, there is an injured person, a policeman, and a doctor on the road in the city. The doctor treated the injured person and called for help. However, the policeman did not notice the help though he was near the doctor. This city looks crazy. Therefore, this lesson is impressive for me. In this way, this program gave me a nice memory.
24. Mr. Tatsuya Tsuji (a first-year student)
I participated the Immersive English Experience for Study-Abroad Preparation Program in British Hills, because I would like to improve my English skill such as speaking, listening and experience pseudo experience foreign culture.
I was impressed with class of "Introducing Japan" and "Sustainable Development Introducing Japan".
The class of "Introducing Japan", to watch a video, we learned about gaps between Japanese habits and foreign habits such as greetings, meals and bathing methods from a foreigner's perspective. I think a lot of foreign people think Japanese rules such as how to bow to the other people when greeting, greetings such as "Itadakimasu" and "Gotisosamadesu" at meals, and not wearing outdoor shoes indoors are very special. In addition to this, we presented Japanese culture in English for each group. Our group's theme is "Setsubun", after the program we also presented in English at the RHIT online session. I thought this experience is very good.
The class of "Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)", we learned about the economic, social and environmental goals of the SDGs, which are currently attracting worldwide attention. This class, Ms. Brett explained about 17 goals such as "No poverty" and "gender equality" and so on which were set in SDGs. Moreover, based on that, each group drew an illustration about the goals and presented it for each group. Before I learned SDGs at this program, I would like to study it someday because I know it a little, so the content which I learned in this program was very useful to me.
Because of COVID-19, the program which was scheduled for about a week became a one-day program. I wanted to learn about British table manners that was held in the summer program but it didn't have enough time to do that, so I disappointed before going to British Hills. However, I think this program was very good because I was able to learn deeply with just one day's program. Moreover, I was keenly aware that my English skill is very lower than other students, so I will continue to study English very hard to beat other student's English skills.
Thank you so much for giving me such a valuable experience.
25. Ms. Dwitipriya Panda (a first-year student)
A Taste of Britain in the Heart of Fukushima
British Hills is tucked away in the countryside of Tenei Village, in southern Fukushima Prefecture. It is a gateway to the elegant world of classic British culture, authentic cuisine,and the rich history of that powerful empire- all without needing a passport.
It is a vast resort comprising an English village, a manor house, an English garden, sports facilities, and more.
Perhaps one of the unique features of British Hills is that it gives visitors the exclusive opportunity to experience British culture and food while brushing up their English Language skills. The lessons challenge the students to learn new concepts and ideas through English.
It covers a variety of topics including science, media, critical thinking, and debate.
Out of the lessons taught, I particularly found the sustainable development goals class to be interesting. The class was divided into three groups for a spontaneous quiz which tested us about the different environments related to the SDGs. Each group was also asked to imagine and draw a city/place depicting any four of the SDGs. It was very fascinating to see the healthy competition among the students and their spirit to answer each and every question.
The class introducing the RAVEN method was also very intriguing. It tested our critical thinking ability as well as taught us to look at things from different perspectives. We were handed a RAVEN analysis sheet to analyze a given product, which kept the class very engaging. The professor ended the class with a little card magic which definitely cheered the students up after a long, yet happening day.
The students enjoyed a delicious meal at the lunch buffet served in the refectory.
Apart from the lessons, it was very fascinating to look at the interiors and architecture of the manor house, which solely depicted British royalty. The hallway, the chandelier, the replica of the King's and Queen's rooms, and most importantly the library, were very captivating.
There is a Victorian Alley, which consists of different and delicious chocolates and sweets for souvenir.
It was an overwhelming experience to have visited the British Hills as a student assistant at the University of Aizu.
