ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a conversation-analytic case study of Joe, who participated in a short-term study abroad program in Japan. Joe was regarded as more of a quiet and reserved person who did not often participate in group social activities. His daily social interactions were video-/audio-recorded by himself with an IC recorder, as well as by the researcher whenever possible. A close analysis of these interactions revealed an interesting parallel between his socialization process and his interactional pattern. For example, Joe’s interactions were limited to three individuals out of the many program participants around him. He did not have a broad social circle. Still, he engaged in substantial topical conversations on a one-on-one basis. This is contrastive to Rose’s case in the previous chapter. The chapter presents detailed transcripts of the ways in which he participated in interactions and illuminates his language-using activities. The analysis indicates a close correspondence between the patterns of interpersonal development and language use in this context.
