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Using multimedia and the internet to create fun learning environments available anytime and anywhere

My research is in the field of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL), which looks at the application of computer technology--particularly multimedia technology such as sound, images, and moving images--in language teaching. Drawing on the combination of internet access with mobile devices, I am developing web-based language teaching materials that can be accessed from a smart phone, allowing the user to study when and where they want, such as on a commute or in a break time.

The use of the internet also offers the possibility for a teacher in Japan to teach students in other countries face to face. My course, "Methods for the remote teaching of Japanese language," will start with basic knowledge of the internet, and cover a broad range of topics from methods of handling problems with the communications environment to making language teaching materials. Students will also be able to experience remote lectures for students overseas.

Remote teaching can be used for interaction between students, too. I have used it to hold a joint class for students studying Japanese in Taiwan and students of the Chinese department here at TUFS (both intermediate level), linked together over a network. The students interacted with each other face-to-face and in real time, like a teleconference, engaging in discussions and giving presentations and question-and-answer sessions on a certain topic. It was a really effective class for both groups, as they were able to further their understanding by teaching and learning from each other, as opposed to simply receiving instruction from a teacher. The greatest benefit of using computers and networks is being able to create a highly flexible learning environment with no restrictions on place or time.

As they specialize in fields in the humanities there are many TUFS students who are hesitant to study information and communications technology (ICT), but combining knowledge of ICT with expertise in a specialist field opens up a great range of possibilities for the future. Particularly in the field of Japanese language education--which is in greater demand overseas than in Japan--multimedia web teaching materials and the internet provide the means for teachers to teach Japanese to people overseas even when they are based in Japan. Even if my students do not become professional Japanese teachers, as a teacher I will be happy if they use the internet to be involved in Japanese learning and exchange activities after they graduate.