It is often surprising to see that many students in universities, even those at middle-ranking or higher institutions, do not hold the Eiken Grade 2 certificate despite its being a standard requirement for high school graduates. Eiken Grade 2 is considered to be at the high school graduation level, but there are several reasons why many students either fail to obtain it or do not prioritize it.
Understanding the Eiken Grade 2 Exam
The Eiken Grade 2 exam is designed to assess English proficiency at the high school graduate level. It is widely recognized and taken by students in Japan as a benchmark for measuring English language skills. The test covers reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with an emphasis on practical language usage in everyday situations.
While it may seem like a basic requirement, the test itself can be challenging for students, particularly those who have not put in sufficient effort to study English consistently throughout their education.
The Gap Between School Education and Real-World Application
One of the key reasons why many university students do not hold the Eiken Grade 2 certification is the gap between the English education they receive in school and the practical use of the language. While English is taught throughout high school, the focus is often on grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension rather than real-world application. As a result, students may struggle with the more conversational aspects of the test or may not feel the need to pursue certification if they feel confident enough in their classroom performance.
Moreover, many students simply do not prioritize certifications like the Eiken Grade 2, believing that their academic studies or future careers will not require it.
Other Factors: Time and Motivation
Another reason is the lack of time and motivation. For many university students, preparing for exams like Eiken requires a significant time commitment outside of their regular coursework. As the pressure of university assignments, extracurricular activities, and social life increases, students may find it difficult to dedicate enough time to prepare for the test.
In addition, the lack of immediate relevance of the Eiken certificate to their career goals may cause students to view it as unnecessary. This is particularly true for students pursuing fields where English proficiency is not immediately required or where other certifications or skills are valued more.
The Eiken Certificate in a Global Context
Lastly, the role of the Eiken Grade 2 certificate in global contexts is often underappreciated. Many students may feel that passing the Eiken exam does not provide them with a substantial advantage when compared to international English proficiency tests such as TOEIC or TOEFL. As a result, they may opt for preparing for those exams instead, viewing them as more globally recognized and useful.
Conclusion: Understanding the Discrepancy
In conclusion, the reason why many university students in Japan do not hold the Eiken Grade 2 certificate despite it being considered a high school graduate-level requirement is a combination of factors. These include the gap between school English education and practical language use, time constraints, lack of motivation, and the perceived irrelevance of the certificate to their future careers. The challenge for many students is finding the balance between academic priorities and achieving language certifications like the Eiken Grade 2.
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