Technical Japanese Program
University of Washington
Department of Human Centered Design & Engineering

Special Features

A 24/7 Online Classroom

Each of the three quarters is ten weeks long and follows a structured timeline and course plan, but students have flexibility in choosing their own study and practice times.  All course materials, assignments, and quizzes are delivered and executed over the Web. Students can choose their own study environment--their office, home, or even while on a business trip--all while using state-of-the-art learning tools for interactive oral practice and instructor feedback.*  Students also have opportunities to practice Japanese with their online classmates over the internet in real time using a virtual practice room.

*Some students may not be able to work from their office or university computer if Firewall protection is used.

Cutting-edge technology

Students practice Japanese interactively using TJP-developed applications that provide an effective and user-friendly virtual practice room.

Conversation Partner
cp_i_screenshot: Screenshot of Joe and Daniel using Conversation Partner
  • Conversation Partner lets you practice model dialogues and role plays with other students over the Internet in real time using a web cam and microphone.
    video: View a sample video

  • Students can record and review video conversations as many times as they like and submit their best performance along with a self-evaluation.

  • Students receive written and audio feedback from the instructor online evaluating pronunciation, grammar, body language, etc.

  • Conversation Partner is easily accessible over the web; no need to download any additional software.

Language Partner
OrderMcD: Language Partner Screenshot of Ordering at McDonalds dialogue lesson on Repeat After Me Tab
  • Language Partner allows students to independently practice and master model dialogues with minimum effort by interacting with on-screen partners.

  • Practice model dialogues by repeating Person A or Person B's line and/or by interacting with Person A or Person B on the screen.

  • Students record their own voice and play it back to compare it with the model speaker. They practice gestures and other non-verbal conversational elements at their own pace, without fear of embarrassment.

Individual Attention

The program pays close attention to each student's progress by monitoring their oral practice, performance in assignments, etc. and by providing individual feedback.

Practice with Native Speakers Online

Besides practicing with classmates, students have opportunities to practice with native Japanese facilitators online and in real time.

Begin Any Quarter

Because each quarter's class is independently structured, students can begin BJO anytime during the academic year.

Each BJO quarter is worth 3 college credits.