Japanese language classes for newly arrived foreign residents of Hiroshima started in September 2020. In 2021, the number of courses is increased and will be offered twice a year, in the spring (from May) and fall (from October).
　If the language you speak is different from the people around you, you may feel isolated and unable to ask for help, or you may not be able to receive important information in case of a disaster. In order to shorten the time that foreigners spend feeling uncomfortable in their daily lives in Hiroshima, we aimed to provide them with opportunities for Japanese language education right after they arrive in Japan.
　There were 10 students in the spring semester who came from Brazil, France, India, Mexico, Poland, Russia, the Philippines and the United States. However, the effects of the spread of the coronavirus pandemic hit the class. The course was scheduled to start on May 7, but the pandemic spread rapidly before then, and public facilities in the city were temporarily closed from May 6. As a result, the course had to be postponed. As mentioned above, for foreign residents who have just arrived in Japan, learning Japanese is an urgent issue that directly affects their daily lives. It was frustrating for all the staff, but above all, the students seemed to be the most discouraged and anxious.
　For this reason, we changed the course delivery method and started classes online in June. However, it is not easy for the teacher to give instructions to a class of first-time learners whose native languages are different. Students try their best to understand the information given by the teacher and their classmates, not only by hearing but also by using their other senses such as sight, but the small screen of a tablet provides little information, and the words are difficult to understand through the speakers. In addition, teaching online also limits the fun games that may be used to motivate learning and casual chats with classmates that may be used for a change of pace.
　However, even in such an environment, the participants were very enthusiastic about learning. The students, teachers, and staff gradually grew closer, and on July 13, when they gathered in the classroom for the first time to meet face-to-face, they greeted each other with the words, "Wow! You're the real Mr. XX! Nice to meet you!" It was impressive to see how many people greeted each other, joked with each other, and laughed all around the classroom. 　A training course for Japanese Language Volunteers, who support the Japanese language learning of foreign residents in the community, also started at the same time as the Heiwa Koen Japanese Class. There are two courses: Course I for those who are meeting local foreign residents for the first time, and Course II for those who have already started support activities.
　In 2021, the number of lectures was increased, and the content was also enhanced. In addition to teaching Japanese, information was also provided on consultation services for daily life in various languages and public support for volunteer activities. The aim was to create a system where citizens and the government can work together to respond to the various needs of foreign residents in Hiroshima. During the current pandemic, it is very important for foreign citizens to have access to information directly related to livelihood security and welfare, as well as for Japanese people close to them to be able to advise them on such information.
　The Japanese language volunteer training course was originally scheduled to be held face-to-face, with the aim of first meeting and talking with foreigners. However, due to the spread of the COVID-19, the course had to be partially moved online. It was unfortunate that the opportunities for direct interaction, such as visiting Japanese language classes, experiencing support, and hearing about life in Hiroshima from foreign residents, were greatly reduced.
　Although the pandemic shows little sign of ending, we are looking forward to the day when the classrooms will be filled with cheerful smiles without masks, and real interaction and much learning will take place.