MIMI OKABE

BASIC JAPANESE I & II

Anonymous Student Testimonials (Selected)

Administered by the University of Alberta Universal Student Rating of Instruction (USRI)

JAPAN 102 Section B05 (2021)

If I were ever asked to refer a professor when the course of interest is Japanese, it would 100% be Okabe sensei. Okabe sensei puts other professors to shame when it comes to teaching a class. This is a very special case where I felt the money I spent on a course was worth it 100%. If she does read this, I would like to thank her from my anonymous heart for actually teaching and not whatever the other professors in other classes (not exclusive to Japanese classes) consider as "teaching".

I really liked Professor Mimi Okabe. She had really great energy every class, was able to read the mood of the classroom even though we were behind computer screens and is very supportive to her students.

This course/instructor has been the best suited to being online, or rather utilized best the combination of in-class time and out-of-class resources, than any other since going online. Short breaks in the middle of a class should be implemented in every class over an hour-long, as they were very helpful in keeping attention for the whole class.

JAPAN 101 Section X03 (2020)

The best teacher I’ve met in four years. Always be really patient and kind. Even students said the wrong answer, she always encouraged them first then corrected it. It’s a pity that the course remotes online.

This course was sugoku tanoshii (extremely fun). The professor continually engaged students and found ways to make learning online interesting (using packet, whiteboard.fi). I would recommend this class to other students interested in learning a new language.

JAPAN 101 Section A04 (2020)

This course was probably my favourite in the entire semester. I woke up raring to go to class, even if I was tired. There's a lot to learn but Mimi-sensei makes it fun to learn. I personally struggled with sometimes catching up due to personal and mental health issues, but Mimi-sensei was always welcoming and caring. Thank you for kickstarting my Japanese learning!

Mimi-sensei is really passionate about the course she's teaching. Her class is really engaging, and I love that she actively encourages us to try our best. I also appreciate Haru-san's help with getting all of us engaged in practices and exercises. My only comment is that it's a little sad I won't be able to join her in 102 next semester. :((((