July 25th (Thursday) [Day 4: Morning: English classes, Afternoon: Hula workshop]
In the morning, the students took three classes: Reading Local News, Creative writing, and Public Speaking.
In the afternoon, they experienced Hawaiian culture in a hula workshop.
Friday, July 26th [Day 5: Kakaako Murals Place-Based Learning in the morning, Presentation of HPU Certificates in the afternoon]
The Kakaako district is an area that is undergoing rapid redevelopment with wall art, gourmet food, fashion, and housing. Here you can experience new Hawaiian culture. It was very close to the university, so we walked there.
They had a delicious Aloha lunch at the university
In the afternoon, several students gave speeches, followed by a ceremony to complete the program.
In addition to English classes,the students also experienced Hawaiian culture. They learned a lot and had an exciting and fulfilling week.
[Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28]
The students spent time with their host familes and friends.
[July 29 (Mon)] Honolulu Airport Return Flight [July 30 (Tue)] Arrived at Chubu Centrair International Airport
People in Hawaii are kind, cheerful and have a good sense of humor. Hawaii, which is made up of various ethnic groups, is very friendly to people from outside. When the students didn’t understand which bus to take, people helped them warmly. People in Hawaii often smile at each other when they pass by. The students saw beautiful scenery and experienced a different culture. They have realized English is an important tool for understanding each other, even if we are from different countries. “I will send souvenirs to Japan, but I want to stay here a little longer.” or “I want to live in Hawaii in the future!” There were the sentiments we heard and it was bittersweet to return to Japan. It seems that they were able to spend a fulfilling and unforgettable time in Hawaii. Both students in the international and regular course participated in this program. The program, organized in collaboration with Hawaii Pacific University, was specifically planned to meet the needs of Bihoku students. Since it was divided into two classes, it satisfied both beginner-intermediate and advanced English students. We would like to express our deepest thanks to Dr. Diane Tai Choe (HPU Lecturer of Applied Linguistics and the Director of International Group Programs) and all the teachers and supporters in making this program successful. Bihoku High School will continue to provide a unique English learning environment that enhances international and cross-cultural understanding.
