Chika Kitano

Education

Ph.D. in Human Sciences, Osaka University

M.A. in Education: Culture, Language and Identity, Goldsmiths College, University of London

Message to Students

I have conducted interview-based research from a sociolinguistic perspective throughout my master’s and doctoral studies, exploring how Japanese international students (re)construct their identities while studying abroad. Experiencing a different language in a different cultural environment often uncovers new facets of one’s identity. I believe that GLA is a collaborative space for learning together with peers and faculty members from diverse cultural backgrounds. In other words, it is a valuable environment where we can take time to pause and engage in discussions that encourage us to reflect on why we think, behave, and act the way we do in society. I look forward to embarking on this enriching academic journey together with all of you.

Courses Taught

• Foundations in Research Skills (Spring/Fall)
• College Writing (Fall)
• Special Lecture (Social Sciences) [Gender and Intercultural Experiences] (Spring)
• Research Seminar (Spring/Fall)
• Thesis (Spring/Fall)

In Foundation Courses, students acquire basic skills for conducting academic research. It is essential to logically structure one’s argument using reliable sources, as this is a key aspect of university learning and a necessary skill regardless of the field of study one pursues in the future. Students will develop techniques and refine their skills to effectively persuade the audience in presentations and the readers of their papers.

In the Special Lecture and Research Seminar, students will learn topics related to gender and language from a sociolinguistic perspective. Japan is significantly behind in terms of gender issues. For instance, when examining specific contexts such as language learning, gender issues are often overlooked even though they are deeply intertwined with the process of learning foreign languages and the surrounding environments. More broadly, beyond language learning, many aspects of what is considered ‘normal’ in Japanese society are closely tied to gender issues. This course encourages students to examine familiar issues from multiple perspectives through the lens of gender. In particular, by drawing on students’ transnational experiences, we will critically explore and highlight the underlying assumptions of what is perceived as ‘normal’ in Japan.

Research Interests

(Re)construction of language learners’ identities, Language learning through study abroad, Gender issues in Japan, Sociolinguistics

Since completing my Ph.D., my research has primarily focused on gender issues in Japan. In particular, I explore how individuals who have lived abroad perceive gender, their careers, and their sense of self and others as they try to adapt to Japanese society. I also examine the significance of physical border–crossing and language acquisition, even in today’s digitized world.

Supervision Information

I am happy to supervise students working on topics related to the sociology of Japan, including contemporary culture, society, education, and language. I also welcome research on the (re)construction of language learners’ identities, particularly in relation to gender, race, society, ethnicity, and mobility. My interests further include gender issues in Japan, such as representation and inequality. Additionally, I supervise research in sociolinguistics, including language use, identity, and thematic and narrative analysis.

Representative
Publications

• Kitano, C. 2024. “Japanese Masculinity: Who Would be the Global Jinzai Power Rangers Fighting the Enemy in a Global Society?,”　electronic journal of contemporary japanese studies, Vol. 23(3)
• Kitano, C. 2020. “Jendaka sareru ryugaku to kyaria [Gendered study abroad and career prospects],” Annual Report of the Institute for Gender Studies, Ochanomizu University: Gender Studies, Vol.23, pp. 185-206.
• Kitano, C. 2020. “Study Abroad as a Space where Akogare (憧 れ) Circulates ~ A Case Study of Japanese College Students’ Study Abroad Experiences in the UK,” Gender and Language, Vol.14(2), pp. 197-219.
• Kitano, C. 2020. “Tackling Gender Inequality in the Japanese Job Market,” European Association for International Education, https://www.eaie.org/resource/gender-inequality-japan-job-market.html
• Kitano, C. 2019. “Does Study Abroad Provide Career Advantages,” Inside Higher Education, The World View, https://www.insidehighered.com/blogs/world-view/does-study-abroad-provide-career-advantages