The Development and the Evaluation of Japanese CALL Courseware for Listening Comprehension Practice. (<Special Issue> Educational Technology Research on Second Language Learning and its Assistance)

Abstract

A CD-ROM-based CALL program focusing on Japanese listening comprehension has been developed using the "Three Step Auditory Comprehension Approach." This material explores current social issues in Japanese society. The effectiveness of the program was measured in a classroom setting using pre and post tests. These tests indicate a notable increase in Japanese language ability, especially in the area of vocabulary. Additionally, the results from an opinion survey show an overall high level of satisfaction with the program. In order to see if the program is appropriate and helpful for learners, class activities of learners were observed and their study records were analyzed. Overall results suggest that this CD-ROM program is an effective and beneficial learning tool.