About me 

Background

I was born in Sendai, Miyagi, but moved away as a baby. Since then, I have lived in various parts of Japan, including Iwate, Niigata, Tokyo, and Fukuoka. As an undergraduate, I spent one year studying in Pennsylvania. Later, I completed my M.A. and Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics at Michigan State University (MSU). I taught Japanese at MSU and the University of Maryland, and I now teach English at Tohoku University. I also lived in Wellington (New Zealand) for seven years, raising two children.

Research [SLA, Foreign language education, listening, & notetaking]

I research how Japanese learners of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) acquire academic English, with a focus on identifying effective instructional methods and practices. My research particularly examines skills related to listening to and comprehending English lectures and presentations, effective notetaking strategies, and training approaches for delivering oral summaries based on spoken input. I also analyze lecture scripts to identify linguistic features and develop level-appropriate listening materials for learners. 

Personal interests

I enjoy practicing yoga and dance to relax and stay healthy. Traveling is one of my favorite hobbies, especially visiting onsen (hot springs) and going hiking. In the future, I hope to visit more Asian countries and experience their nature, culture, and delicious food.