FAQ
Other inquiry
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Q :A child who has transferred to our school does not understand Japanese. However, our school does not have a Japanese language support program. Can we use NICO PROJECT at our school?A :
Yes, you can. Some local governments have introduced NICO PROJECT as the Japanese language learning support program provided by their schools. If you would like to use NICO PROJECT through a local government or school, please contact us through [here].
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Q :We are an international association. We have a growing number of foreigners in our region who do not understand Japanese. While they are working with volunteers, we would like to help them maximize their language learning. Can we take measures to further help them by using NICO PROJECT?A :
You can introduce NICO PROJECT as your association’s Japanese language learning service provider, and regularly offer it to foreigners who would like to learn the Japanese language. Please contact us through [here].
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Q :Some of our children have volunteer Japanese language tutors who assist them. When these children use NICO PROJECT, are volunteer tutors allowed to be present with the children during lessons?A :
Yes, they are. You can expect the synergistic effect of NICO PROJECT delivering even more careful and organized learning through a cooperation with regional supporters. For example, even supporters with no Japanese language educational expertise will be able to provide appropriate support by participating in (as a supporter to assist children in reviewing after class) classes provided by professional Japanese language teachers. The intention of NICO PROJECT is not to deprive volunteers of jobs but rather to reduce their burden.
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Q :Can I access NICO PROJECT from overseas?A :
Yes, you can access NICO PROJECT from overseas as long as you have the required devices and internet environment. However, you might have a time zone issue. If you can participate in the course following our timetable, you can avail of NICO PROJECT.
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Q :I am a supporter. Do you provide any opportunities where I can get advice on what support I should offer to students of NICO PROJECT other than your lessons?A :
Yes, we do. Our experienced multi-cultural coordinators offer consultation on regional support after the class hour or other than project lessons depending on the children’s Japanese language levels and situations.
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Q :Other than study guidance, can I consult NICO PROJECT on my career path or further studies? Also, can foreign parents consult with NICO PROJECT?A :
NIOC PROJECT provides online consultation on career paths and further studies, and consultation with parents.
About devices and eiviroment
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Q :What is the recommended network environment for using NICO PROJECT?A :
Not to mention about fiber optic line but an ADSL line is enough as long as an internet connection environment is established.
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Q :My computer is old. Do I have to prepare any devices?A :
NICO PROJECT provides interactive classes where students can have conversation or writing practice while being checked by teachers. If your computer does not have a microphone and camera built-in, please be able to provide them.
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Q :Is it possible to learn with NICO PROJECT without a desktop or laptop?A :
Yes, it is. You can take the program via desktop, laptop, tablet PC (such as an iPad), or smartphone as long as you have an internet connection. However, as small screens can make the words on them hard to read, we recommend that you use a desktop or laptop whenever possible.
Fees and Payment
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Q :Do I have to buy the textbooks by myself?A :
Basically, you will have to buy the textbooks separately, but since the textbook varies depending on classes, please check the required textbooks after you have chosen your classes. (We can also lend textbooks. Please ask us in case you need to borrow any.)
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Q :I want to study and learn at NICO PROJECT but I can’t pay the tuition fee.A :
NICO PROJECT provides a scholarship program where children or youth who meet certain conditions will be granted free tuition or a partial reduction thereof. Please consult with us first through [here].
About our curriculum and class levels
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Q :Does NICO PROJECT have classes for first grade elementary school kids?A :
We are afraid that currently, no classes are available for first to fourth grade elementary school kids (children around less than 11 years old). We are developing a class curriculum for these younger children and it is now under test operation. We will open the course once we are ready to distribute it online.
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Q :With my Japanese language level, I don’t know which class level I should start with. Can I take a level check test?A :
Yes, you can. You can talk to our coordinator about class levels when you go for your free consultation and trial.
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Q :Can adults also learn Japanese through NICO PROJECT?A :
Yes, they can. The curriculum is generally designed for children over 12 years old and adults as old as 30’s.
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Q :Is the online course of NICO PROJECT one in which students learn via recorded video streaming classes?A :
No, it isn’t. NICO PROJECT consists of real-time live streaming classes in which remote students can talk with the teacher and learn interactively using their screens. If students have questions during the class, they can ask the teacher. They can also have conversation practice.
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Q :I want to study the Japanese language, but I cannot participate in the classes more than once a week because I am working. What should I do?A :
The Japanese language classes of NICO PROJECT make up a short-term intensive program. Basically, students attend class five days a week (20 sessions) on weekdays. If you are unable to attend classes due to your work commitment, you can watch the recordings of the classes you miss to make up for them. However, it might become difficult to catch up by attending classes only once a week or through self-learning using videos. NICO PROJECT also provides a website where you can learn Japanese using recorded video content without enrolling yourself in regular Japanese language classes. Please register yourself through [here].