Mari Noda

Mari Noda is a distinguished Professor Emeritus in the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature at The Ohio State University. With a profound specialization in East Asian language pedagogy, she has significantly contributed to the field through her extensive research and innovative teaching methodologies. Mari earned her PhD in Linguistics from Cornell University, which laid the foundation for her illustrious career in academia. Her research interests are deeply rooted in curriculum development, assessment, and material development, particularly within the realm of East Asian language education. As the director of the Summer Program East Asian Concentration (SPEAC), Mari has played a pivotal role in managing intensive Japanese and Chinese language programs, which have been instrumental in advancing language proficiency among students. Mari is the lead producer of the acclaimed NihonGO NOW! learning material, a comprehensive resource designed to enhance the learning experience for students of Japanese. Additionally, she has been instrumental in the development of the Japanese Skills Test (JSKIT), a tool that assesses language proficiency with precision and accuracy. Her scholarly contributions include co-authoring significant publications such as "Japanese: The Written Language" and "Remembering the Future: Compiling Knowledge of Another Culture," which have been widely recognized in the field. Beyond her academic pursuits, Mari holds esteemed board positions with the Japan-America Society of Central Ohio, where she actively engages in fostering cultural exchange and understanding. She also serves as an advisor to the Nihongo Osyaberi-kai (Japanese Conversation Club) at OSU, where she mentors students and encourages them to immerse themselves in the Japanese language and culture. Her dedication to education and cultural exchange continues to inspire students and colleagues alike.