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Episode Description (English):

このエピソードの日本語版は2026年4月7日に公開されます。
A Japanese-language version of this episode will be released on April 7, 2026.

This episode begins with a brief story about KAMI-SHI-BAI 「紙芝居」 Japanese "paper theater" once performed on street corners with picture cards and dramatic narration, regarded as a predecessor to modern manga and anime.

Then, former professor Saiki Yukari of Tokai University shares insights from her experience teaching Japanese to international students through performance-based methods.

Saiki-sensei explores innovative ways to adapt this heritage art form and other performance techniques to empower learners, foster collaboration, and build confidence in the classroom.

Part 1: A story of kamishibai (paper theatre) told by Darren Kinsman (00:14–02:20)
A short historical tale introducing this iconic Japanese storytelling tradition.

Part 2: Saiki-sensei's background (02:30–09:24)
An overview of Saiki-san's journey, from her education and teaching career to her involvement in performance in education.

Part 3: Turning kamishibai (Paper Theater) on its head (09:25–15:00)
Discover how Saiki-san flips this classic storytelling medium from passive viewing to active, student-led creation.

Part 4: Summary of a report on a drama project (15:00–23:10)
A clear overview of a drama-based project, with key takeaways on integrating performance into language curricula.

Part 5: Workshop in Bordeaux: collaboration reduces the distance between participants (23:10–25:19)
Reflections on her collaborative workshop in France, demonstrating how group performance activities bridge interpersonal gaps and enhance group dynamics.

Part 6: Ideas for teachers (25:20–29:39)
Practical, ready-to-use suggestions for educators to incorporate kamishibai-inspired activities, drama, and performance elements that promote agency, engagement, and reduced anxiety.

Whether you're exploring performance in language education for the first time or seeking fresh ideas, this episode offers grounded, classroom-tested inspiration.

Please see the links below for resources related to this episode.

Professor Saiki Wins National Speech Contest
https://www.u-tokai.ac.jp/news-section/46582/

Japanese Drama as a Theatrical Project (PDF)
https://www.u-tokai.ac.jp/uploads/2021/03/11.pdf

Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please like and leave a review. To learn more about the Performance in Education SIG, check out our website:

https://jaltpiesig.org/

Have questions or want to get involved? Reach out to us at pie.sig.podcast@gmail.com.

To access other high-quality JALT podcasts, go to JALT CALL (Computer Assisted Language Learning) Podcasts on Soundcloud!

https://soundcloud.com/jalt-call

For tips on how to cite these episodes using APA 7th edition, use the link below:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uLVARUdviigboSQXkJXfgNm0zNkMsal6brBvwpmTKWM/edit?usp=sharing

Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please like and leave a review. To learn more about the Performance in Education SIG, check out our website. 

https://jaltpiesig.org/

Have questions or want to get involved? Reach out to us at:

pie.sig.podcast@gmail.com.

To access other high-quality JALT podcasts, go to JALT CALL (Computer Assisted Language Learning) Podcasts on Soundcloud!

https://soundcloud.com/jalt-call

For tips on how to cite these episodes using APA 7th edition, use the link below:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uLVARUdviigboSQXkJXfgNm0zNkMsal6brBvwpmTKWM/edit?usp=sharing

Intro & Outro song: Unlock Me (Royalty free)

Music by Kontraa Studio | UKA Music Publishing LLC