How do different learning strategies impact Japanese proficiency

Different learning strategies significantly impact Japanese proficiency by influencing vocabulary acquisition, kanji mastery, conversational skills, and overall language competence. Research shows a strong positive relationship between direct strategies (such as memorization, organization, and elaboration) and indirect strategies (like revisiting material, self-questioning, and goal-setting) in Japanese language learning. Learners who employ multiple strategies in an integrated way tend to achieve greater proficiency. ^{1, 2}

Effective vocabulary learning tools focusing on passive vocabulary retention show more progress in learners at intermediate and advanced levels, but there is often less improvement in active vocabulary use. This suggests the need for tools and strategies enhancing word production and long-term retention for a higher proficiency. ³

Kanji learning is particularly challenging, and strategies like cooperative learning (e.g., Teams Games Tournament) and focused writing practice improve vocabulary mastery and kanji skills, essential for proficiency especially at intermediate levels. Differentiated instruction tailored to individual learner levels also positively affects language outcomes, supporting lifelong learning. ^{4, 5, 6, 7}

Metacognitive knowledge—the understanding of how and when to use learning strategies—is crucial for effectively applying multiple strategies, which in turn promotes more efficient language acquisition including reading skills. ^{8, 9}

Furthermore, online and Internet corpus-based learning approaches have been found to positively influence motivation and learning outcomes, enhancing performance through exposure to authentic language use. ^{10, 11}

In summary, Japanese proficiency benefits most from a balanced use of diverse learning strategies involving cognitive, metacognitive, and social elements, along with technology-enhanced methods and tailored instruction to address specific challenges like kanji mastery and active vocabulary use. ^{2, 5, 1, 3, 8, 10}

References

• Direct and Indirect Language Learning Strategies in Japanese Language Acquisition

• Direct and Indirect Language Learning Strategies in Japanese Language Acquisition

• The Effect of an Online Vocabulary Learning Tool on Passive and Active Vocabulary Use at a Range of Proficiency Levels

• Japanese Language Students’ Perceptions on Kanji Learning and Their Relationship to Novel Kanji Word Learning Ability

• Revitalization Of Learning Loss in Moji level Intermediate of Japanese Language Education Program Brawijaya University

• Application of Differentiated Instruction on Japanese Language Proficiency Test to Build Students’ Awareness of Lifelong Learning

• TGT (Teams Games Tournament) Cooperative Learning Model in Kanji Courses to Improve Japanese Vocabulary Mastery

• Knowing the learning strategy is not enough to use it: Example in reading strategies for Japanese undergraduates

• Knowing the learning strategy is not enough to use it: Example in reading strategies for Japanese undergraduates

• The Effect of Internet Corpus Learning on Students’ Japanese Learning Motivations and Learning Effect

• The Effect of Internet Corpus Learning on Students’ Japanese Learning Motivations and Learning Effect

• Do sex differences impact upon the learning of Japanese

• Encouraging Inquiry: A Semester-Long Project Using Science Buddies

• Foreign Language Proficiency and Learning Strategies of Souvenir Peddlers in the Borobudur Temple Area

• Perceptions of the English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students’ Program Toward Vocabulary Learning Strategies

• Effects and Impact of Extensive Reading in Japanese University English for General Purpose Classes

• Institutional proficiency and learning curves in robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery: a single-center retrospective analysis using the cumulative sum method

• TRANSFORMATION OF JAPANESE CULTURE FOR INCREASING JAPANESE COMMUNICATIVE COMPETENCE

• Exploring the Relationship between Learning Strategies Used in Language Learning

• A Teaching Model for College Learners of Japanese Based on Online Learning

• The Effectiveness of Instagram “Studyin.Japanese” to Improve Japanese Vocabulary Skills of Intermediate Level Japanese Language Department UMY’S Students

• The Relationships between the Accuracy of Self-Evaluation, Kanji Proficiency and the Learning Environment for Adolescent Japanese Heritage Language Learners

• Rethinking active learning in the context of Japanese higher education

• The Communication Strategy Used by Japanese Learner at the Basic Level

• Enhancing Students Motivation in Japanese Conversation (Online Course): through CM

• Cultivation Model for Autonomous Learning Ability of Japanese Majors