Tallinn University’s Baltic Film, Media, and Arts School hosted Professor Ryoko Hayashi from Kobe University, Japan.
Professor Hayashi holds degrees in linguistics and medical sciences, with extensive experience in language education and neuropsychological research. She is an expert in Japanese, English, German, and Italian, focusing her research on language acquisition, language contact, and intercultural communication.
During her lecture in the course "KOI7068.FK Internationalization, Multiculturalism, and Challenges in Business Management," Professor Hayashi discussed the dynamics of language contact, its impact on migration, and the interplay between linguistic diversity and education. She explained how language contact occurs, the linguistic consequences of migration, and how Japan applies a multilingual approach based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Real examples and case studies from Japan and beyond illustrated how theoretical concepts are applied in practice. Her insights sparked discussions on the impact of language policy on businesses operating in multicultural environments, emphasizing the importance of linguistic and cultural sensitivity in international management. The lecture-seminar provided master's students with an overview of the intersections between language, migration, education, and entrepreneurship, offering valuable perspectives to address the challenges of globalized, multicultural workplaces.
In the course "KOK6063.FK Intercultural Communication," she introduced key concepts of intercultural communication, focusing on how speaking styles differ across cultures. Using examples from Japanese language and culture, Professor Hayashi discussed concepts such as self-disclosure, high-context versus low-context cultures, and humor in intercultural contexts. Students engaged in activities aimed at exploring cultural peculiarities and interpersonal communication. They examined how self-introductions vary across cultures, identifying verbal and non-verbal cues that express respect, politeness, and individuality. The importance of cultural context in shaping expectations was discussed, and students practiced creating self-introductions tailored to different cultural environments. They also analyzed ethnic jokes related to their cultural backgrounds, discussing the stereotypes they reinforce and the social dynamics they reveal. This exercise encouraged critical thinking about humor as a bonding mechanism and its potential dual role in fostering biases.
Students explored cultural differences in comedic timing, delivery, and speaking styles through humor and cinematic storytelling. They analyzed Yasujirō Ozu’s portrayal of subtle and nuanced communication, comparing these elements with humor from their own cultures.
The lectures offered unique perspectives and interactive discussions that enriched students' understanding of linguistic and cultural phenomena in a globalized world. Students praised Professor Ryoko Hayashi’s engaging teaching style and the opportunity to connect theoretical concepts with practical, real-world applications. One participant in the communication management master's program remarked, "Her insights into language contact and cultural communication were incredibly eye-opening. I feel I now have a deeper understanding of how language shapes and influences our conversations."
Tallinn University’s Baltic Film, Media, and Arts School sincerely thanks Professor Ryoko Hayashi for her invaluable contributions and looks forward to welcoming her again in the future.