Tomoko Takami

Tomoko Takami is a Senior Lecturer in Foreign Languages and Director of the Modern Japanese Language Program at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Arts & Sciences. She specializes in Japanese language education with a focus on business Japanese and content-based instruction. Her roles include teaching courses from beginning to advanced levels of Japanese, including professional applications. She holds an EdM from Columbia University and an MS from the University of Pennsylvania.

Her research emphasizes critical pedagogy, intercultural communication, and global talent development through language education. She has published extensively on business Japanese curriculum design, proficiency-based instruction, and post-pandemic language education strategies. Notable works include Chukyu kara nobasu Bijinesu keesu de manabu nihongo (2014) and co-editing Mirai wo tsukuru kotobano kyooiku wo mezashite (2015).

Dr. Takami has presented at major conferences including the International Symposium on Japanese Language Education and the National Council of Less Commonly Taught Languages. She has held leadership roles such as Immediate Past President of the American Association of Teachers of Japanese and chairs multiple curriculum committees for AP Japanese Language and Culture. Awards include the AATJ Teacher Award (2019) and grants from the Eurasia Foundation and Penn Language Center.

• Awards: AATJ Teacher Award (2019), Best Project Award (2008)
• Grants: Eurasia Foundation Grant (2020–2025), Penn Lauder CIBER Grants (2008–2010)
• Leadership: Co-chair of AP Japanese Language Committee, Founding Chair of Japanese for Specific Purposes SIG

Her teaching spans foundational to advanced levels, integrating real-world business scenarios and global case studies. She advocates for hybrid learning models and cross-cultural competency development, reflecting her commitment to preparing students for international professional environments.