At Yamasa we use a teaching method called direct method that involves teaching using the Japanese language only. It is the fastest way to learn Japanese. In the classroom of course it is possible to use gestures and intonation to help a student learn, something that is more difficult on the internet. We provide optional language support, however the OCJS still endeavors to teach in Japanese only wherever possible.

As students come from a wide range of nationalities, the OCJS is language neutral. At the beginner level there are explanations and introductions given in several languages, but the lessons are given in Japanese the same way they are at the Okazaki campus. As far as we know, the OCJS is the only online program provider offering this kind of virtual immersion.

In order to maintain language neutrality and facilitate the use of Japanese as a common language between online students, the optional language support will gradually be reduced from upper intermediate level.

We will also be aiming to increase the number of languages supported. For example, at the moment the OCJS is one of a very few resources available for learning Japanese with German or Czech language support. And the Kanji Dictionary is one of the few existing with Spanish language translations and interface.