Conversational functions needed in Japanese university campus

Aiming for prosodic training by function in Japanese language education

Abstract

This study serves as the starting point for a series of analyses to show that there are commonalities in prosodic features in speech even when superficially different terms or expressions are used, provided that they have identical functions. The eventual objective of this research is to develop function-specific prosodic indicators, and support oral training for beginner-level learners as part of Japanese language education. As a first step, the present study uses a questionnaire survey to identify the conversational functions required by beginner-level Japanese language learners within a university setting.

The results indicate that the following are required: 1. Functions to request a form of action in another party, 2. Functions to convey one's feelings, and 3. Communication functions to facilitate interpersonal relationships.