What is JALT?
The Japan Association for Language Teaching (JALT) is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to the improvement of language teaching and learning both within Japan and internationally with over 2,000 members in chapters and affiliates across Japan as well as members abroad.
JALT members can attend JALT events including the annual international conference at member rates. Most chapters, including Osaka, hold regular meetings, attendance of which is usually free to members. You can easily join or renew your membership online.
Members also receive copies of JALT's two main publications; The Language Teacher and JALT Journal. The Language Teacher (TLT) is JALT's bimonthly publication, and carries a diverse range of material related to language teaching and learning, particularly in an Asian context. JALT Journal is the research journal for the organisation. It is published twice yearly; in the spring and in the fall.
JALT also has a number of Special Interest Groups (SIGs). These are national networks for information exchange and fellowship among teachers with similar interests. They further JALT's mission of improving foreign and second language education in Japan. SIGs are based on the various academic, research and pedagogical interests shared by JALT members. SIGs are founded on similar occupations, subjects or levels taught, teaching approaches tailored to Japan, interest in certain fields, or interest in certain issues cutting across disciplines.
How can I join?
To join JALT please follow this link to the JALT National page.
You can also join by attending one of our regular chapter meetings and asking an officer for a membership form.
How much does it cost?
Prices for annual membership are as follows:
- Regular member: 13,000 yen
- Five-year member: 52,000 yen
- Joint member (2 people who share the same address): 10,500 yen per person
- Student member: 7,000 yen — Available to full-time students of undergraduate or graduate universities, vocational schools, technical schools, or other degree-granting programs.
- Senior member: 7,000 yen — Available to JALT members who are or will be at least 65 years of age at the start of a term of membership.
- Group member: 8,500 yen per person for a group of 5 or more (one copy of each publication is sent to the group address)
For complete details, please see the national membership page on JALT's main website.
I have an idea for a meeting. What should I do?
Great! Please contact us at Osaka@jalt.org!
I sent an e-mail to Osaka JALT and I haven't heard back yet. What should I do?
Thanks for the email, but please keep in mind that all of our officers are volenteers and are busy with work and family and it may take several days before we can get back to you. If you haven't heard from us in about a week, please send your email again.
I'd like to volunteer. What should I do?
Great! We could always use more help. Please get in touch with us and let's see how we can put your talents to work!