Story-based CALL for Japanese kanji characters: A study on student learning motivation

Abstract

We investigated the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing a novel, story-based computer-assisted language learning (CALL) system for students learning Japanese kanji characters. In contrast to traditional kanji instruction methods, which rely most heavily on rote learning, our story-based CALL system focuses on mnemonic stories (following Heisig, 1986) and allows the user to create and manage mnemonic stories. System features include a multi-modal audio/visual interface, a portable form factor, a flashcard quiz mode, hyperlink navigation among stories, and a story sharing facility. Experimental evaluation results indicate that after using our device for a two-week period, statistically significant and statistically suggestive improvements in six aspects of students’ motivation and learning strategies for learning kanji increased, as measured by the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire.