Program Staff

Professor Konoeda's research focuses on language pedagogy, grounded in sociocultural theories of language and literacy. Her research rethinks what it means to learn a world language in a college classroom, through ethnographic and discourse analysis to study students’ engagement in class projects. Visit her research website to learn more about her work.

She is passionate about combining her expertise in language teaching with a vision to promote linguistic diversity on campus. At Bates College, she primarily teaches Japanese language courses.

Photo credit: Phyllis Graber Jensen/Bates College

As a senior at Bates College pursuing a double major in Philosophy and Mathematics with a minor in Japanese, I bring a  passion for language learning and cultural exchange to the SPELL program. Growing up in Beijing, China and having learnt English, Japanese and Korean, I developed a natural appreciation for the interplay between language and identity, which has only deepened through my academic pursuits.

Drawing from my experience as an international student and multilingual speaker, I understand the importance of creating inclusive spaces where diverse languages and cultures can thrive beyond the traditional classroom setting. Through SPELL, I look forward to assisting leaders sharing their linguistic heritage and contributing to Bates College's multicultural community.