Evaluation of an Improved Dictogloss System Oriented for Focus on Form

Abstract

In this paper, we describe how to improve a Japanese language education environment for nonnative speakers (dictogloss system oriented for focus on form) and its evaluation. Our existing dictogloss system already has some functions supporting learners' self-study with dictog loss activities. However it has not been evaluated in practical situations. To adapt this system to real foreign language education scenes, we improved the system so that it accepts Roman alphabet input without kana-kanji conversion, which some learners actually prefer to input with kana-kanji conversion. We also developed a recording function of a learner's operations which enables us to analyze activities of actual learners. Preliminary evaluation of our improved dictogloss system with actual learners shows that our improved dictogloss system has better learning effect than a conventional dictation environment.