Dictionary Tools Used by Learners of Japanese Around the World: Towards Appropriate Support of Vocabulary Search Behavior on Smartphones

Abstract

Many Japanese learners use dictionary applications and internet-based dictionaries on their smartphones, tablets, and personal computers. In this study, we asked 110 learners of Japanese from various regions of the world to record the vocabulary searches on their devices in their daily lives. The recordings were analyzed in terms of input language, input method, resources used for search, search process, and success or failure of search behavior. We found that Japanese language learners ingeniously search for vocabulary by combining and applying their previously learned knowledge. However, it became clear that there are many situations in which learners take a long time to search or are unable to find the information they want due to errors in their Japanese or in their search methods. The environment of vocabulary search for learners of Japanese is undergoing dramatic change due to ever-evolving technology. We would like to explore the possibility of new support for vocabulary search behavior based on the accumulation of analysis of individual cases like those seen in this study.