On Monday, February 9, 2026, the Preparation Center for Languages and Mathematics (PC) held an academic workshop for instructors titled “Building a Strong Vocabulary Foundation for First-Year University Students.” It was given by Dr. Paul Wadden, a Specially Appointed Professor in the Faculty of International Liberal Arts at Juntendo University in Tokyo, Japan.

Dr. Wadden is a renowned expert in English language teaching. His relationship with PC dates back to 2008, when he assisted with an in-depth curriculum revision, and he has remained a close collaborator ever since.

The workshop focused on curriculum development and pedagogy centered on the importance of second language learners acquiring sufficient English vocabulary early in their higher-education experience. The workshop included a productive discussion of current practices as well as possible areas for improvement.

The event was a valuable opportunity not only to enhance our instructors’ professional knowledge but also to strengthen the institutional partnership between PC and Juntendo University. We would like to thank Dr. Wadden for his ongoing contributions to PC.