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1. What prompted you decide to participate in the "JSPS Science Dialogue" program?
The "JSPS Science Dialogue" program was introduced to us at the orientation meeting held by JSPS. I decided to participate, because I think it is very important to talk to the public in general and students in particular trying to show them the fascinating world of science.
2. To what did you give greatest attention in preparing and giving the lecture?
To keep the science at a level that is understandable for non scientist. Therefore I added a long general part about my science area. I gave great attention to the non-linguistic part: I included movies and experiments to attract as much attention and gain as much understanding as possible.
3. Did you find it difficult to give a lecture in English to Japanese students? Could you give some advice to future lecturers on how to facilitate communication with Japanese students?
Actually I did not find it difficult, but I needed some time to think of easy words as substitute for "science language".
My advice would be: Try to speak slowly in very easy and short sentences. Not many words, but many pictures. Also gestures help to improve the understanding.
4. Could you give your impression with regard to participating in this program?
I think this is an excellent program. So I am happy that I could contribute to it. I think all involved people were very enthusiastic about it, in that way it was very stimulating and enjoyable.
5. Was it meaningful in terms of your fellowship activities?
To talk about my work in a way, that I am no used to, helped me to step back and review my science.
6. In what ways do you think the students benefited from the program?
I hope I could stimulate their curiosity about science and the world we live in. They also learned that science has no frontiers, in contrary is very international. I think they also benefited from a lecture given in English, even in case they did not understood everything—in the latter case they might see the Importance of good language skills.
7. Could you give some overall advice or comments to future participants in the program?
Speak easy English, included many pictures and movies and don't be afraid of simplification to make your work understandable to students. Actually just show that good science is not only serious but also thrilling and fun.
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