Learning How to Learn: Preparing Expatriate Intern to Work in a Japanese Organization
Tomoko Masumoto

Abstract
This study explores the training for U.S. Americans and Canadians working in internships in Japanese organizations, and reviews aspects of the adjustment and social learning process as described by the interns and how, after arriving in their work setting, they learned how to learn interpersonal, intercultural competencies on the job. Four themes emerged as consistently most important: (1) attention to language learning; (2) the importance of asking questions; (3) letting go of time and space boundaries; (4) learning to trust – especially toward supervisors. More attention needs to be given in orientation and training programs to guide sojourners to develop sensitivities to ways of learning about the national and organizational cultures in their work environments.


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