Fun Friday 07: Interview with Niko of Nihongo Shark #2

Nihongo Shark: A Website for Learning Japanese

Nihongo Shark is a website created by Niko that offers study tactics and materials for learning Japanese. Niko initially created the site in 2012 and started sharing articles on language learning and study resources. Over time, as his proficiency in Japanese improved, he began writing lessons as well and enlisted the help of his Japanese wife to ensure accuracy. Nihongo Shark is known for teaching students how to teach themselves Japanese, with a focus on techniques for improving vocabulary, reading, and conversation skills. The website also offers a wealth of resources and an upcoming vocabulary course that utilizes sentences with a single new word to make learning more manageable.

Challenges in Japanese Language Education

Niko and Alex discuss the challenges of learning Japanese and teaching the language. They highlight the poor English education system in Japan, particularly at the middle and high school levels, which teaches English in a very academic and non-conversational way. They note that many dictionaries and translations can contain inaccuracies, and even professional sites have been known to have errors. Niko shares his experience working as a proofreader for a publishing company and points out the flaws in English translations he has encountered. They agree that learning vocabulary is best done in context through extensive reading.

Overcoming Overwhelm in Japanese Language Learning

Alex and Niko address the common issue of feeling overwhelmed when studying Japanese. They encourage learners to establish a study routine that includes reviewing previously learned content and gradually introducing new material. Niko stresses the importance of consistency and persistence in learning, as it may take hundreds or thousands of hours to achieve fluency. They discuss the varying levels of proficiency needed for different language-related careers, such as translation, and emphasize the importance of finding a passion for Japanese beyond traditional career paths, as there are numerous opportunities for those who can speak Japanese and English.

Future Plans and the Success of Nihongo Shark

Niko shares his plans for the future, including the continuous expansion and improvement of Nihongo Shark's content. He mentions the possibility of creating an English podcast for Japanese learners and expresses interest in publishing more books. Alex praises Nihongo Shark's extensive lesson collection, highlighting the almost 700 lessons that have been written so far. They discuss the potential for publishing a physical book and the importance of having a strong online presence through platforms like Instagram. Niko also reflects on his journey and his own language learning experience, acknowledging the overwhelm he faced but ultimately finding success in his dedication and consistent study habits.

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Fun Friday 07: Interview with Niko of Nihongo Shark #2

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Nihongo Shark: A Website for Learning Japanese

Challenges in Japanese Language Education

Overcoming Overwhelm in Japanese Language Learning

Future Plans and the Success of Nihongo Shark

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