Language Usage of Indonesian Technical Intern Trainees Engaged in Fisheries

Abstract

In the current labor shortage situation in Japan, the acceptance of foreign workers is increasing. In particular, the acceptance of technical intern trainees under the Technical Intern Training Program, which was established in 1993, has increased in recent years. This study focuses on the language use of technical intern trainees in the fisheries sector. Interviews and participant observations were conducted with technical intern trainees and Japanese crew members while they worked together. The survey revealed that, in the workplace, language activities are carried out through social resources such as "catchwords," whose meanings have been negotiated. It is suggested that Japanese language education for technical intern trainees should not only teach the language but also its use in the work context. The Technical Intern Training Program is currently under debate, but even if its name is changed, the acceptance of foreign workers is likely to continue. In the future, communication understanding will become extremely important, not only for technical intern trainees but also for those who receive them.