Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. I can’t speak Japanese at all. Can I still join?
A. Yes.
However, Gogaku LABO is not a service where you simply receive lessons from a teacher.
As long as you are willing to learn on your own and try using Japanese in your own words,
your current Japanese level doesn’t matter.
Q2. What do we talk about during the conversation sessions?
A. Most conversations are based on your daily life, work, or personal interests, but there are no restrictions on topics.
You don’t have to come up with a new topic by yourself every week. We’ll naturally decide together what to talk about next during our conversation sessions.
Q3. Who leads the conversation sessions?
A. At the moment, all conversation sessions are led by me, Yuki Fujimura.
I have been teaching Japanese for over 20 years.
In the future, if I meet people who share Gogaku LABO's philosophy and learning approach,
additional conversation leaders may join Gogaku LABO.
Q4. Do you use a textbook?
A. No. We do not use a fixed textbook during the conversation sessions.
Gogaku LABO provides learning materials such as Rakushu! Nihongo and Kanstagram,
but these are designed for self-study.
Of course, you are welcome to use these materials,
or you can choose your own textbook and use it as the basis for our conversations.
Q5. Can I ask questions about grammar or Japanese expressions?
A. Yes.
If something is unclear or you’re curious about a grammar point or expression,
feel free to ask during the conversation.
You’ll also receive advice on grammar and natural expressions through conversation and writing feedback.
However, Gogaku LABO is not a teacher-centered lesson.
We value learners who think, ask questions, and improve by actively using Japanese.
Q6. Will I have homework or preparation assignments?
A. I won’t assign homework or preparation tasks.
However, at Gogaku LABO, I believe writing is just as important as speaking.
Before or after each conversation session,
I’d like you to write down anything you’d like to talk about or reflect on, in any form you like.
It doesn’t have to be perfect. Even a few keywords or simple notes are enough.
Let’s gradually build your writing skills together.
Q7. What can I experience during the trial?
A. During the one-week trial, you’ll experience exactly the same learning cycle as a regular member.
Through conversation sessions, writing, and feedback,
you’ll experience how learning at Gogaku LABO works.
Q8. Will this help me prepare for the JLPT?
A. Gogaku LABO is not a JLPT preparation course.
Instead, I believe that building a solid foundation in listening, speaking, writing, and thinking in Japanese will naturally help you succeed on the JLPT later.
Once you’ve built that foundation, you’ll be able to study JLPT practice books much more effectively.
Q9. Why are the conversation sessions only 30 minutes?
A. Imagine you could choose between a 90-minute class with three students or a 30-minute one-on-one conversation session for the same price. Which would you choose?
Also, isn’t it easier to fit 30 minutes into your weekly schedule than 90 minutes?
At Gogaku LABO, I believe that actively using Japanese in your own words
—even for a short time—is more valuable than spending long hours being taught.
Q10. Do I have to join at the same day and time every week?
A. Yes.
Gogaku LABO uses a fixed weekly schedule.
Many people find it much easier to make time for a 30-minute session each week than a 90-minute one.
Language learning is not about finding special time
—it’s about making Japanese a natural part of your everyday life.
Q11. Do I have to use Discord?
A. No.
Using Discord is completely optional.
Discord is available as a place where members can communicate in Japanese and contact me easily.
You can also use it as another opportunity to stay connected with Japanese outside the conversation sessions.
Feel free to use it in whatever way best fits your learning style.
Q12. Can I join from outside Japan?
A. Yes.
As long as you have an internet connection, you can join from anywhere in the world.
All conversation sessions are held in Japan Standard Time (JST), so please check the time difference before applying.
Q13. Do I have to keep my camera on?
A. Yes.
In principle, participants are asked to keep their cameras on during conversation sessions.
Communication is more than just words.
Facial expressions and gestures are also an important part of natural conversation,
and seeing each other helps create a comfortable learning environment.
If you have a temporary reason—such as illness or technical problems—that prevents you from turning your camera on, please let me know in advance.
However, participating with your camera turned off every time is not compatible with the learning environment that Gogaku LABO aims to provide.
Q14. What happens if I miss a conversation session?
A. We do not offer make-up sessions.
Your reserved time is set aside exclusively for you.
Therefore, missed sessions cannot be extended or rescheduled.
Thank you for your understanding.
Q15. Will more days or time slots be available in the future?
A. At the moment, Gogaku LABO operates on a limited schedule.
However, if the current schedule doesn’t work for you
because of your time zone or work commitments, please feel free to contact me.
If I receive enough requests, I’ll gladly consider adding more days or time slots in the future.