・第36回（2005年度）九州・沖縄支部研究大会へのお誘い

ニューズレター43号から第36回外国語教育メディア学会（LET）九州・沖繩支部研究大会の実行委員長ドライスタット先生（沖縄国際大学）のお言葉を抜粋掲載いたします。

Okinawa CALLing

Conference Chair : Douglas Dreistadt (Okinawa International University)

The 36th Annual Kyushu-Okinawa Chapter Conference of the Japan Association for Language Education and Technology is rapidly approaching. This year's district conference is being held in Okinawa for the first time. Our host, Okinawa International University, would like to wish you all a warm welcome!
The theme of this year's conference is e-learning. Perhaps the most important distinguishing feature of e-learning is its utilization of TCP-IP networks, which makes possible a remarkable degree of interactivity, as well as real-time monitoring and recording of student progress. I think you will see this focus reflected in many of the presentations at this conference.
Although there is a growing body of research on the use of computers in the classroom in Japan, there is much less research focused specifically upon e-learning. The pedagogic value of e-learning often goes unrecognized but even when recognized, it is often discounted. Increasing numbers of language teachers, however, are recognizing the potential utility of e-learning, and for good reason. Language teachers know that the degree of use of the target language outside the classroom correlates closely with student progress.
Language teachers are quick to appreciate the great potential e-learning offers to increase opportunities for language practice beyond the classroom.
E-learning courses utilize virtually universal technological standards, making delivery possible on any operating system. E-learning's interactive reach extends far beyond the walls of the classroom and the campus, making it a natural for the enhancement of language teaching/learning. Learning can take place anywhere, anytime, extending the temporal limitations of the classroom as well. The technological learning curve is now negligible thanks to the ubiquity of computers. Communication among and between teachers and students is significantly enhanced. Content can also be easily updated at any time. Why, then, is e-learning so under-utilized in Japan despite all these advantages? Some of the biggest obstacles are institutional and cultural, and I believe these constitute our biggest challenges.
Research conducted by members of our organization can continue to contribute significantly to the field of e-learning in Japan. I look forward to attending the many insightful presentations scheduled for this conference, and joining in some lively discussions. I would like to express my sincere thanks to all the presenters, and especially to the organizers. We all tend to overlook the fact that conferences cannot be successful without the hard work and patient efforts of those behind the scenes. Special thanks go to Prof. Kinoshita for his skillful leadership and guidance of our chapter. Many thanks and kudos to all.
I would be remiss if I did not mention the incident which took place at OIU (Okinawa International University) last August (2004), A large section of our campus, including the Administration Building, was invaded and occupied by US marines. Those of you who enter via the main gate of the university will undoubtedly notice the blackened, scarred Administration Building just inside the gate. A panoramic view of the US marine base can be had from the roof of Building 5. During the conference, our student peace guides would be happy to escort you to both places. Please contact conference headquarters if you would like a guided tour.
Although this is just a one-day conference, we encourage participants to take advantage of the myriad recreational opportunities available here in Okinawa. Very few other aquariums in the world rival the Churaumi Aquarium. World-class diving and numerous other marine sports can be enjoyed year round at our dazzlingly beautiful beaches. There are a number of World Heritage sites located here, as well as hundreds of other sightseeing spots. Okinawa has a rich and distinctive culture and history, and we hope you can enjoy learning a bit about our heritage while you are here. There is far too much to see in one trip, so we warmly invite to return again, and again.

(An excerpt from LET-KO News Letter #43)