The aim of this thesis is to trace the change of language ideology and policy towards regional dialects in Japan from World War II to the present. The first part defines the concepts of dialect, language ideology and language policy, and presents a historical overview of the region of Northeast Japan (the Tōhoku area) and its dialects. The second part provides a diachronic perspective on the development of language policy in relation to the Japanese regional dialects; the third part focuses on the manifestations of language ideology in relation to dialects of northeastern Japan in three literary works and three television programs (two serialized morning dramas and one evening show). The conclusion of the paper summarizes the tendencies in the development of perception and rendering of dialects of northeastern Japan.

The number of Japanese students who experience overseas schooling is increasing. After a few years overseas, these children accompanied by their families return to Japan. Because of serious schooling competition and exclusive social climate against foreigners and returnees, those children sometimes find it extremely difficult to readjust to the Japanese school and society. One of the reasons for this condition lie in misconceptions about the returnees and the lack of concern by school teachers in Japan. Concurrently, teachers in local schools overseas have some difficulty understanding the situation and needs of their Japanese students who temporarily stay in their schools. This thesis discusses the background of Japanese overseas schools, and reviews governmental documentations on these institutions. It investigates a case study of the Vancouver Hoshu Jugyo Kou, a supplementary Saturday school. Survey questionnaires were administered to 99 students in Grades 4 to 9 in this school, interviews were conducted with the principal, twelve mothers, a consulate from Japan, and ESL specialists of the Vancouver School Board. The HJK school report in 1986-7 has been analyzed. Study findings indicated the distinctive role of the HJK for Japanese students in Vancouver and the particularities of its locating in the Vancouver Japanese community. Some suggestions for the future development of overseas Japanese schools are examined. / Education, Faculty of / Educational Studies (EDST), Department of / Graduate