Our mandate is to create a safe online learning environment so that you feel empowered by reconnecting with your heritage language. We have a Code of Conduct in place to support and educate current and prospective students about the importance of cultivating a professional and respectful community. We ask all members to abide by the following guidelines.
On Fostering Anti-racist Pedagogical Approaches & Classroom Management
We understand that anti-racist pedagogy involves constant reflection and revision. For now, we ask that students coming into our programs abide by and respect the following guidelines.
Beyond Behaving Respectfully: Some of us come from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds with diverse lived experiences. In class, we encourage you to think critically and reflect on your racial prejudice, racial biases and assumptions about people and cultures. Do your best to be conscientious about how you manifest micro-aggressions, even if it’s not intended to hurt your peers. With that said, if something is said or done in class that hurts you, please talk to your instructor first. To learn more about micro-aggressions, visit the course page.
Occupying Spaces 1: Up to now, we have all had different levels of access to our ancestral language. Given the different levels of exposure to the Japanese language and culture, let’s all be mindful of how we talk about our experiences and make sure that nobody feels left out.
Occupying Spaces 2: We want to give everyone a chance to share their voice and speak up in class. Pause and take a moment to reflect on the space and time you take up in class, such as when providing answers to questions and when asking questions for clarification when participating in group discussions. Make sure that everyone gets a say.
General House Rules
1. Attendance
Rule of thumb, do not be late. In Japan, it is customary to be ready for a meeting at least 5 minutes before it starts. Chikoku or tardiness is a social taboo. To prevent this, make sure that your internet connection is stable. Log in 5 minutes before the live sessions. At the same time, we understand that life happens. If you are late for our live classrooms, we ask that you join discreetly.
2. Absences
Life is sometimes unpredictable, but if you know you are going to miss a session, please let your instructor know at your earliest convenience. We are committed to helping our students every step of the way and we want you to meet us halfway by being accountable, responsible, and timely. You can reach us by email.
3. Courtesy and Civility
Even as adults, it is important to keep yourself in check. Interact in a way that is civil and courteous to others. All of you have paid for your attendance to be here and to learn. No one should interfere with that.
4. Language
No offensive remarks, profanity, and harassment. Just do not do it. You will be held accountable for misconduct. We are committed to supporting Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Indigeneity (EDII) for all students and members affiliated with Japanese for Nikkei from around the world. Read more about it here.
5. Guests
Only paid members are allowed to join the online Zoom classes and have access to the online learning materials, which have been specially made for your eyes only. With that said, however, pets are more than welcome!
6. Food and Drink
Because we are all joining from different time-zones, if you get thirsty or hungry, drink and eat. We just ask that you mute your microphone and practice basic manners when doing peer-learning activities.
7. Have Fun!
Most importantly, bring your positive and lively energy to the classroom! Let us connect online!
