SOAS Research Online

Abstract

This paper is a study of the use of silence by Japanese learners of English in cross-cultural communication during a transitional time of globalization. It has frequently been pointed out that Japanese learners of English tend to show a passive attitude and remain silent in class. On the other hand, in the EFL field, for several years now, this phenomenon has been linked to the impact of globalization. It, therefore, has been pointed out that Japanese learners at present are more outgoing and express themselves more in communication. This study looks at the use of silence by Japanese EFL students in relation to their cultural values and also at its relationship to globalization. It also considers how cross-cultural misunderstandings can be avoided in a pedagogic context. To this end, this study draws on insights from the interpretation of the use of silence by learners from a socio-cultural perspective.