Punctuality

Japanese people as a rule tend to be fairly punctual for appointments. However, since cell phones have become ubiquitous, more and more people have become relaxed about being late.

For the teacher, there are several ways to approach students who are late for lessons conducted in the teacher's home or at a cafe or other meeting place. Strictly speaking, the teacher does not have to do anything differently when the student is late. She may choose to simply finish the lesson on time as usual and the student receives a shorter lesson because he was late. This is a perfectly acceptable way of handling lateness provided the teacher herself is never late.

If the teacher is sometimes late, then the best thing to do is exercise equal tolerance when the student is late. Obviously though, it's rather unprofessional for the teacher to be late for lessons at an external meeting place. While many teachers in Japan feel friendly with their students and that the lesson experience is rather casual, it's important to remember that the teacher is being paid and must act in accordance with professional standards.

In regards to student lateness, it's important to consider circumstances. If the student is infrequently late due to unavoidable circumstances such as train delay, weather conditions, or an unexpected problem at work, then it is advisable that the teacher extend the lesson to give the student the full time. By offering flexibility to students who are unavoidably late, the teacher shows reasonable tolerance and that there is a benefit to having a private lesson with the teacher which isn't usually extended in other settings.

If a student is habitually late though, it is perfectly acceptable to end the lesson on time as usual every time. While it is important to be reasonable, it's also important that students respect your time. A student who is frequently late is taking it for granted that you will accommodate him. Students shouldn't be taking advantage of the teacher's flexibility or kindness.