Examining the Effectiveness of Technology Component in a Japanese Language Course

Abstract

Japan401 was an advanced Japanese (undergraduate) course that consisted of a face-to-face component and a technology component. The technology component was incorporated into the course to cultivate students' knowledge and skills of language and culture, through their direct communication with native Japanese speakers. Three surveys and two focus groups were administered to investigate the effects of the technology component of the course. Initial findings indicate that overall, technology had a positive impact on student learning. Specifically, the impact of technology on student learning/understanding, student perception of technology, and student satisfaction with technology are reported. Some suggestions put forward from faculty and student participants for further improvement of the (technology component of the) course are also reported and analyzed.