Join our free online Chat Lounge for teachers of young English learners—a casual, supportive space to connect, share experiences, and talk openly with fellow educators.

Learn practical strategies to move beyond stickers and rewards, using Positive Discipline principles to build genuine motivation and classroom cooperation. Try ready-to-use activities and leave with approaches you can implement immediately.

Open to current and prospective JALT members.

Register now — https://forms.gle/wAUFSgwZ66UbDBfKA 

Using Origami and Smartphones to  Spark Creativity and Dialog

Dr Yukiyo Nishida, University of Aberdeen - 'Papier-Falten' (paper folding), is one of a series of handicraft activities in Friedrich Froebel's (1782-1852) kindergarten curriculum. Various folding techniques and models derived from traditional European paper folding were introduced into the Japanese kindergarten curriculum associated with Froebel's concept of kindergarten. The marriage of Western (German) and Eastern (Japanese) paper-folding cultures resulted in the development of paper folding as a form of origami in Japan. In this session, we will experience and practice some pedagogical approaches in early childhood education using origami.

Alexander Robinson, Director of Studies, Chaucer College Canterbury - This presentation explores mobile phone use in the classroom, It considering both potential benefits and drawbacks, the co-development of mobile phone rules with students, group leaders, and teachers, and current policies. The presentation draws on practitioner research conducted in classroom settings, as well as relevant research from the wider field, and will outline practical activities using mobile phones to support learning. The session will include opportunities for participant discussion and reflection.

Register now — https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfpNKryhSzuVHPpEzs07oP5yrmRc498NAvoA4fcRCG-cy_6JQ/viewform 

Join our 2nd free online workshop for English teaching professionals!

See how experienced teachers use today’s most effective ICT tools and apps in real classrooms, and practice them yourself in hands-on breakout sessions. Ask questions, get ready-to-use activities, and connect with fellow educators.

Open to current and prospective JALT members (JALT members will receive the recording and materials on a later date.)

Register now — https://forms.gle/V7HAFcvAVLDjxJwt8 

3 mini workshops are as follows:

• Robert Chartrand “From Quiz to Learning Tool: Using Kahoot with Purpose”

• Allison Tong “Technology as a Tool: ICT Apps that Enhance Early Learning”

• Masako Moriwaki “Learning with AI: A Journey with Young Learners”

Register now — https://forms.gle/V7HAFcvAVLDjxJwt8 

🍁 November: The Month of Thanksgiving! 🦃

Let’s share creative ways to bring the spirit of Thanksgiving into our English lessons! 

It’s a perfect time to help young learners practice gratitude and express themselves in positive, meaningful ways. You will also learn a little about how Positive Discipline empowers this kind of practice.

You will meet English teachers who work with different age groups who have their creative ideas to incorporate it into their lessons. We invite you to share your own ideas, too!

Registration Form link: https://forms.gle/Eaw4wA61XNbfv23L7

Registration is now open for the JALT TYL SIG Secondary School English Education Conference in Tokyo on November 29, 2025. Register before November 16 and get a free lunch! For more information, check out the registration website here: https://sites.google.com/view/jalttylsigsecschoolenglishedco/home

Join Us for Our Next Online Chat Lounge – Sunday, September 28th.

This time, we’re diving into the topic of rewards and encouragement in parenting and education. We’re planning to invite certified Positive Discipline educators who will share real-life insights and practical experiences. Whether you’re new to Positive Discipline or looking to deepen your understanding, this is a great opportunity to learn directly from experienced practitioners.

Don’t miss this chance to connect, ask questions, and grow together in a supportive, interactive space!

Register here: https://forms.gle/8GtneFq44czxXx3G9

📢 Conference on Best Practices in Teaching English in Japanese Junior and Senior High Schools

• LOCATION: Shinagawa Shouei Junior and Senior High School, 1 Chome-6-13 Nishioi, Shinagawa City, Tokyo 140-0015

• DATE/TIME: November 29th, 2025 10am-5pm

• REGISTRATION FEE: 2,000 yen for JALT members, 3,000 for non-members

We invite teachers, researchers, and education professionals to submit proposals for presentations at our upcoming conference focused on innovative and effective practices in English language education at the junior high and senior high school levels in Japan.

🔍 Theme: Bridging English Language Education at Secondary Schools in Japan – New Methods and Approaches

This conference aims to bring together educators and experts to share insights, methods, and reflections on teaching English in the rapidly changing landscape of secondary education in Japan.

💡 Presentation Categories: We welcome 20-minute presentations (including 5 minutes for Q&A) in either English or Japanese in one of the following areas:

• Practical Teaching Ideas.

• Share classroom-tested activities, materials, or lesson plans that have shown effectiveness with junior or senior high school students.

• Use of AI and Technology in the Classroom.

• Demonstrate how you have incorporated tools like ChatGPT, voice recognition apps, or online platforms to enhance language learning.

• Future Trends in English Education.

• Explore emerging trends such as CEFR alignment, global competencies, project-based learning, or learner autonomy.

• Pedagogy and Curriculum Design

• Present research or case studies related to syllabus design, assessment strategies, or program development aligned with MEXT reforms or CEFR.

• Best Practices in English Teaching

• Showcase school-wide or department-level practices that have improved student outcomes or teacher collaboration.

📋 Submission Guidelines:

Each proposal should include:

• Title of your presentation

• Abstract (max 150 words)

• Target student level (junior high / senior high / both)

• Presentation Language (English or Japanese)

• Presenter name(s), affiliation, and contact information

• Category (from the list above)

📅 Deadline for Submission: [August 31, 2025]

Submit your proposal via Google Form. https://forms.gle/kR8uKBskinBCKzRT8

💬 Sample Abstract Format:

Title: Encouraging Natural Conversation in the Classroom with AI

Abstract: This presentation will showcase a series of speaking activities that use ChatGPT to simulate real-world conversations for high school students. Participants will see examples of how generative AI can scaffold dialogues and improve student fluency and motivation. The presentation will include a demonstration of activities, feedback from students, and a guide for teachers to implement similar practices.

Target Student Level: Senior High School

Language: English

Category: Use of AI and Tech in the Classroom

Submit here: https://forms.gle/kR8uKBskinBCKzRT8