Yumiko Shirai

Yumiko Shirai serves as Dean of the Faculty of International Studies and Department Head of the Department of English at Kobe College, where she holds the academic rank of Professor specializing in English Education.

Her educational qualifications include:

• Bachelor of Arts from Kobe Women's College
• Postgraduate Diploma in TEFL from the University of Stirling
• M.A. in Applied English Language Studies from the University of Wales

Professor Shirai's research and teaching focus centers on English language pedagogy, particularly Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) and Applied Linguistics. Drawing from her UK graduate training and subsequent experience as a high school teacher and part-time university lecturer, she emphasizes rigorous methodology in teacher preparation. Her courses in the teacher training program (教職課程) are noted for producing highly effective English educators who continue the department's legacy.

Scientific awards: No awards mentioned in available documentation.

She maintains active student advising through the teacher training program, with office hours held Wednesdays during lunch break in JD-412 or via Zoom. Her mentorship directly contributes to graduates' successful careers in Japanese education sectors, reflecting the program's strong professional outcomes.