Week 99: Initiation of data analysis

This week was relaxing and productive in terms of a transition from theory review to data analysis.

Based on the plans my supervisors and I made last week, I mapped out audio data to structure analysis chapters, and I set a weekly schedule for conducting each process and writing chapters for the next year. I then started analysing consultation data, which is going to be my focus for Christmas and the New Year.

I am very excited about going back to Tokyo in two weeks’ time and have bought Christmas presents for my family and friends. I will stay in Japan for a couple of weeks, and the schedule is already filled with short trips to Kyoto and Fukuoka, Christmas concerts and dinners. My parents and aunt seem very excited about seeing me, which makes me feel merrier!

Certified as a language teacher of Japanese

At last, I’ve completed a two-year online programme for teaching Japanese and have been awarded the certificate!

I think the course’s learning style suited me, and I was comfortable working on it at my own pace. I gained a much better understanding of grammar and teaching techniques and developed my confidence. I worked hard on each piece of coursework, most of which was quite practical.

In 2016, before I started teaching at university, I took a three-month course on teaching Japanese that covered basic teaching skills. It was good to acquire that knowledge step by step, and I have learnt how to apply it to a classroom environment.

I am not sure whether I will teach again next year, as I would like to focus on my thesis until December 2019. However, some people say it’s better to continue teaching, in any subject and in any setting, such as groups or private lessons.

Hazelnut, Pecan and Nutella Swirl Buns

Since making chocolate babka in July, Luca has often asked me when I will bake it again. I normally choose a recipe for my next weekend’s baking while watching cooking videos on YouTube. I’ve just discovered Donal Skehan’s Chocolate Swirl Buns, which look tasty and much easier to make than twisting babka. I tried his recipe.

Actually, soon after starting to knead the dough, I realised that I had made a mistake with my milk measurement. I had added too much, so the dough was very sticky. I tried to remedy my mistake by adding flour, but I almost gave up, afraid it wouldn’t work. But after the first rise, the dough had a good consistency, and I decided to continue making it. I used Nutella and added hazelnuts and pecans. It eventually smelled really nice, tasted good and wasn’t bad at all. The recipe is amazing.