Chi e Journal of Japanese Learning and Teaching
CHI’E: JURNAL PENDIDIKAN BAHASA JEPANG, (E-ISSN: 2685-6662, P-ISSN:2252-6250) starting in 2024 migrates from OJS 2 to OJS 3 to better secure from various unwanted things, including journal hacking and so on. To submit, the author please visit the new website page of our journal at the link https://journal.unnes.ac.id/journals/chie MIGRATION OFFICIAL STATEMENT HERE CHI’E: JURNAL PENDIDIKAN BAHASA JEPANG, (E-ISSN: 2685-6662, P-ISSN:2252-6250) is an Open Access, Peer-reviewed, has the perspectives of japanese languages, literature and language teachings. This journal has the Focus and Scope of presenting and discussing some outstanding contemporary issues dealing with Japanese Language Teaching, Japanese Literature & Japanese Linguistics. This journal is published every March and October by Prodi Pendidikan Bahasa Jepang, Universitas Negeri Semarang, Indonesia, and accredited by the Indonesian Ministry of Research, Technology and Higher Education (RistekDikti) of the Republic of Indonesia in SINTA (Achieving Sinta 3) since Volume 9 (2) 2021 Until Volume 14 (1) 2026. The recognition was published in Director Decree (SK No. 204/E/KPT/2022).
Criminality and Social Structure in Takeshi Kitano’s Outrage: A Sociological Approach
This study examines the representation of criminality in Takeshi Kitano’s Outrage through a sociological approach to literature, drawing on Willem Adriaan Bonger’s theory of criminal forms. Using a descriptive qualitative method, data were collected through observation and documentation, focusing on dialogues and scenes that depict economic, sexual, aggressive, and political dimensions of crime. The analysis also explores the underlying social factors that drive these forms of criminality. The findings reveal that Outrage portrays not only physical and psychological violence within the yakuza hierarchy but also fraud, extortion, and manipulation as systemic features of organized crime. These criminal forms are interrelated and serve as reflections of broader social inequalities. Viewed through the lens of literary sociology, the film represents a critique of Japan’s hierarchical and profit-driven society, where criminal behavior emerges as a response to structural injustice and social competition. Overall, this research demonstrates that Outrage functions as a mirror of social reality depicting criminality as both a personal and institutional phenomenon rooted in unequal power relations and sustained cycles of retribution.
Copyright (c) 2025 Chi e Journal of Japanese Learning and Teaching http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Internal and External Factors Influencing Kanji Learning among Japanese language Students in Indonesia
This study investigates the factors influencing kanji learning among students of the Japanese Language and Culture Study Program, Class of 2022, at Darma Persada University. The research employs a qualitative descriptive approach, combining field observations, literature review, and questionnaire-based data collection. The analysis identifies two major dimensions, internal and external factors that affect students’ kanji learning. The average score for internal factors is 3.77, categorized as “high”, while external factors show a slightly higher average of 4.15, also in the “high” category. These results indicate that both dimensions significantly influence kanji learning, with external factors exerting a stronger impact. The most influential external indicators include parental support, peer support, study environment, teaching methods, teacher-student relationships, study time allocation, and the availability of learning materials and media. These findings suggest that successful kanji acquisition is shaped not only by students’ individual motivation and cognitive readiness but also by the surrounding social and instructional context. This study contributes to understanding how learning environments and interpersonal dynamics enhance kanji learning outcomes among Japanese language students in Indonesia.
The Representation of Magical Realism Elements in the Novel Sputnik Sweetheart by Haruki Murakami
This study explores the elements of magical realism and the social contexts underlying their emergence in Haruki Murakami’s Sputnik Sweetheart. Drawing on Wendy B. Faris’s theory of magical realism, the analysis employs structural and dialectical approaches. The findings reveal that Sputnik Sweetheart embodies all five defining elements of magical realism. This is exemplified in the mysterious disappearance of Sumire on a small island in Greece, an event unexplainable through realistic logic and instead framed as a transition into another dimension—blurring the boundary between reality and imagination. Similarly, the appearance of Miu’s doppelgänger in her Swiss apartment intensifies the novel’s unsettling magical atmosphere. These events evoke ambiguity about Sumire’s sudden disappearance and Miu’s overnight transformation, as the real and the imaginary intertwine. Beyond identifying these narrative elements, the study also uncovers the social context behind Murakami’s use of magical realism—specifically, the collective trauma and social injustices experienced by marginalized female characters, as well as implicit critiques of Japan’s socio-political relations with its neighboring countries.
Patriarchy and the Regulation of Feminity in Edo Japan: A Foucauldian Discourse Analysis
Literary works serve as cultural instruments that reflect and perpetuate dominant social ideologies, including those related to gender and power. This study investigates the construction of women’s discourse during the Edo period (1603–1868), a feudal era under Tokugawa rule, through a Foucauldian analysis of Shinjū Tenno Amijima, one of the most prominent plays of the time. Using Foucault’s theory of discourse and a qualitative discourse-analytical approach, the research examines how female subjectivity is represented, regulated, and disciplined within the text. The findings reveal that portrayals of women’s self-sacrifice, emotional restraint, and loyalty to men function as mechanisms of social control that reproduce patriarchal values. These depictions naturalize women’s subordination and reinforce gendered hierarchies within Edo society. The study further argues that discourse in Shinjū Tenno Amijima operates as a form of power—one that shapes gender norms and legitimizes women’s roles within the sociocultural structure of the period. By situating literary representation within the broader framework of Foucauldian discourse theory, this research contributes to understanding how literature not only mirrors but also sustains systems of power and patriarchy in premodern Japan.
Evaluating the Effect of Digital Media and Coginitive Styles on Kanji Learning: An Experimental Study Using Tanoshiijapanese.com
This study examines the effect of digital learning media and cognitive styles on kanji learning outcomes, focusing on the use of the tanoshiijapanese.com website as a learning platform. The research aims to determine how this website supports students with different cognitive styles—Field Dependent (FD) and Field Independent (FI)—in learning kanji. As online and blended learning continue to evolve, the integration of interactive web-based tools has become essential in language instruction, particularly for complex writing systems such as Japanese kanji. This study employed a one-group pretest–posttest experimental design involving students enrolled in a Kanji I course. Participants completed a pretest, underwent learning sessions using tanoshiijapanese.com, and then completed a posttest. Results indicated that both FD and FI learners experienced significant improvement after the intervention, confirming the positive impact of the digital platform on kanji acquisition. Furthermore, FD learners achieved slightly higher gains than FI learners, suggesting that the website’s guided and visually structured format aligns more closely with the cognitive tendencies of FD learners. These findings underscore the potential of web-based tools to enhance kanji instruction while addressing individual learning preferences.
Understanding Reading Themes and Question Types in JLPT N5: Insight from Practice Books
This qualitative study reports on the investigation of theme or topics and types of questions in the reading section of the JLPT N5. Drawing on 37 texts and 46 questions from three different book sources of JLPT N5 practices, this research reveals three main findings. First, apart from informational texts, which are realized in the forms of short notices such as announcements, timetables, food labels, and memos, most topics in the short and longer texts tend to be personal and descriptive. Second, all topics in the reading section are related to everyday life, involving 11 topics related to personal life and to the surroundings. Personal-related topics include activities (past, present, and future), family, future dreams, houses, friends, pets, and simple experiences, whereas surroundings-related topics are composed of announcements, timetables, instructions, and food labels. The most dominant topic is descriptions of activities (past, present, and future), while the second highest topic is related to the announcement content (including the name of the place, operational hours, contact numbers, lists of products, prices, discount information, and warnings about something). Third, the types of questions in the reading section of JLPT N5 involve three categories: easy, moderate, and difficult. Easy types of questions include locating certain information, such as names, objects, activities, and basic facts within a text and/or simple matching visuals with texts. Moderate questions cover matching texts and visuals, reasoning, and finding details. The difficult types of questions involve conclusion, prediction, and inference, in which the examinees are required to understand what is not explicitly stated to answer.
Paralinguistic Features in Cross-Cultural Communication: A Study of Indonesian-Japanese Married Couples in Vlogs
Paralinguistics forms an essential part of nonverbal communication and plays a crucial role in shaping meaning within intercultural contexts. Grounded in Poyatos’ (2002) framework of paralinguistic aspects, this study examines how paralinguistic features are realized in the interactions of an Indonesian Japanese married couple through their vlog. Using a qualitative descriptive approach with note-taking techniques, the research identifies and analyzes features such as voice volume, pitch, tempo, pauses, drawling, and clipping. The findings reveal distinct tendencies that reflect each speaker’s cultural background. The Indonesian speaker, Diera, often employs soft loudness, higher pitch, drawling, and frequent pauses, expressing warmth and enthusiasm characteristic of Indonesian communicative norms. Her Japanese husband, by contrast, displays a slower tempo, moderate volume, and subtle pitch variation—traits associated with calmness, politeness, and harmony in Japanese communication. These contrasting yet complementary paralinguistic patterns demonstrate how intercultural couples negotiate meaning and emotional expression through nonverbal cues. The study highlights the significance of understanding paralinguistic elements in cross-cultural communication, particularly for enhancing mutual comprehension, preventing misinterpretation, and fostering more effective interaction across cultural boundaries.
Morphopragmatic Features of Japanese Diminutives: A Literature Review
Diminutives play a significant role in communication directed toward infants and children, serving both linguistic and social functions. However, studies that specifically and comprehensively examine diminutives in the Japanese language remain limited. This literature review aims to describe the morphological forms and semantic meanings of Japanese diminutives based on previous research. The study adopts a qualitative descriptive approach using a narrative literature review method. In Japanese, diminutives appear in various grammatical forms, including honorific name suffixes (e.g., -chan), performative honorifics (e.g., -dechu), nouns (e.g., uchagi), adjectives (e.g., kuchai), adverbs (e.g., chukochi), verbs (e.g., achobu), and adpositional forms (e.g., chochite). The meanings of these diminutives are context-dependent and can be interpreted within the conceptual framework proposed by Schneider, encompassing notions such as smallness, affection, and sweetness. By synthesizing existing studies, this review contributes to a deeper understanding of the morphopragmatic and sociolinguistic functions of diminutives in Japanese. It also highlights the need for further research to explore their broader communicative and cultural significance in everyday interaction.
Exploring Students’ Perceptions of the Summary Method as a Reading Comprehension Strategy in Japanese Language Learning
This study investigates students’ perceptions of implementing the summary method in the Advanced Reading 2 course of the Japanese Language Education Study Program at Brawijaya University. Conventional reading classes generally emphasize reading aloud and translating, which often leads students to focus on literal translation rather than comprehension (Trahutami, 2017). To overcome this limitation, the summary method was introduced to integrate reading, writing, and speaking skills, encouraging active language use during lessons. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study design involving eight purposively selected students. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and documentation. The findings show that most students viewed the summary method positively, noting that it improved their understanding of reading texts and enhanced their language proficiency. However, students with moderate and lower academic performance experienced difficulties simplifying sentences due to limited vocabulary and grammatical knowledge. Overall, the summary method proved effective in fostering comprehension and promoting language integration. Future research is recommended to include participants from different educational levels to provide broader insights into the method’s implementation in reading instruction.
Representation of the Mie Dialect in Japanese Popular Media: A Lingusitic Analysis of Yatogame-chan Kansatsu Nikki
A dicalect represents a regional variation of a language, distinguished by unique phonetic features, vocabulary, and grammatical structures. The Mie dialect, a branch of the Kansai dialect group classified under Nishi Nihon Hogen (Western Japanese dialects), embodies these regional linguistic characteristics. This study investigates the representation of the Mie dialect in the Japanese anime series Yatogame-chan Kansatsu Nikki, focusing on two linguistic aspects: word classes and word formation processes. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, the study utilizes Tomita’s classification of word classes and Palter and Slotsve’s theory on Kansai dialect word formation to analyze the data. This study identifies 30 examples of Mie dialect usage across the series, with sentence-final particles (shujoshi) emerging as the most frequest category. In terms of word formation, the most common process involves complete transformation from standard Japanese vocabulary. The findings highlight how popular media portrays regional dialects and contribute to broader discussion on linguistic diversity and regional identity in contemporary Japan. This study underscores the importance of analyzing dialect representation in media to understand how regional linguistic features are maintained, adapted, or transformed within popular culture.
Developing Intercultural Communicative Competence in Vocational Foreign Language Courses: Case Study of Japanese and Korean Learners
The 21st Century Skills Framework identifies foreign language proficiency and intercultural communication as core competencies essential for individuals’ future lives and careers. In response, higher education institutions have increasingly emphasized the development of graduates equipped with strong communication abilities and intercultural understanding to meet the demands of the global labor marker. Beyond linguistic competence, a deep understanding of the cultural contexts and communication patterns inherent in the target languages –such as Japanese and Korean—is critical. This study aims to explore and analyze the perspectives of university students learning Japanese and Korean regarding the communication styles and cultural backgrounds embedded in these languages. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study collected quantitative data through questionnaires distributed to students enrolled in “Introduction to Communication” (Japanese) and Korean language courses. Qualitative data were gathered through focus group discussions and student essays on intercultural communication, conducted as part of the classroom activities. The findings reveal that students develop intercultural communicative competence by integrating cognitive, affective, and behavioral dimensions, fostered through reflective learning practices in both language courses.
A Comparative Study of Japanese Refusal Expressions Used by Indonesian and Native Japanese Female University Students
Refusal is an essential aspect of communication that can lead to discomfort for both the refuser and the recipient. Speakers employ various refusal strategies to mitigate potential conflict and maintain social harmony. This study examines the refusal expressions used by Indonesian female university students studying Japanese and native Japanese female university students. It aims to explore how these two groups use refusal strategies in different academic settings: irai (requests), sasoi (invitations), and teian (suggestions), when interacting with both close and less close friends. Data were collected from 60 respondents using an Oral Discourse Completion Test (DCT) and analyzed based on Beebe et al.’s (1990) refusal semantic formula. The findings reveal that both groups predominantly use indirect strategies over direct ones across all scenarios. They also employ four main semantic categories in their refusals: fuka (denial), shazai (apology), riyuu (reason), and tamerai (hesitation), with riyuu and tamerai being the most frequently used. However, a notable difference emerged when refusing close friends: Indonesian Japanese learners exhibited a stronger tendency to preface refusals with shazai, suggesting a possible influence from their native language and cultural norms. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of intercultural pragmatics and the influence of linguistic background on refusal strategies. Future research may explore refusal expressions in broader social contexts to investigate cultural and linguistic influences on politeness strategies.
native Japanese female university students
Foreign Language Proficiency and Learning Strategies of Souvenir Peddlers in the Borobudur Temple Area
This study examines the foreign language proficiency and learning experiences of souvenir peddlers around the Borobudur Temple area. The study has two main objectives: (1) to explore the background of the peddlers and (2) to analyze their foreign language skills and acquisition methods. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, data were collected through questionnaires and interviews with five souvenir peddlers aged 39-58 with varying educational backgrounds. Findings reveal that these peddlers can communicate in multiple foreign languages, including English, Japanese, Chinese, French, Korean, Dutch, German, Thai, Malay, Spanish, and Italian. However, their language acquisition occurs informally, primarly through interactions with tourists rather than formal education or textbooks. While some began learning languages at a young age, others started only after entering the souvenir trade. The study highlights the role of necessity and direct exposure in shaping language proficiency. The results suggest that foreign language skills significantly impact the peddlers’ ability to engage with international tourists and enhance sales opportunities. Future research should expand to other tourist destinations, such as Bali, Lombok, and Labuan Bajo, to compare language acquisition patterns among souvenir vendors in different regions.
Linguistic Features and Conversational Functions of the Tosa Dialect in Gintama
This study examines the linguistic forms and conversational functions of the Tosa dialect as represented in the anime Gintama. Originating from Kochi Prefecture, the Tosa dialect preserves elements of ancient Western Japanese in both phonologu and vocabulary, contributing to its distinct linguistic character. In Gintama, the dialect is used to construct character identity and highlight regional background, particularly for figures modeled after historical personalities from Tosa. Drawing on qualitative and descriptive methods, this study analyzed dialogues spoken by characters who use the Tosa dialect across several episodes. The analysis identifies seventeen dialectal forms, including grammatical variations such as ~yuu , ~chuu, ~ki, and ~jaki, and explores their pragmatic roles in expressing aspect, negation, emphasis, and causality. The findings reveal how dialectial variation contributes to characterization and authenticity in Japanese popular media. Despite notable differences from standard Japanese, the contextual use of the Tosa dialect in Gintama allows viewers to infer meaning and appreciate the cultural and linguistic diversity it represents .
Structural and Semantic Analysis of the Auxiliary Verb ~You (da) in Japanese Sentences
This study investigates the structure and meaning of the auxiliary verb ~you (da) in Japanese sentences. Data were collected from the Books Bunpou ga Yowai Anata e and Manabo! Nihongo Shou (Chuukyuu) and self-constructed sentences reviewed by native speaker linguists. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, 29 instances of ~you (da) were analyzed and categorized into three meanings: assumption based on observation (15 cases), similarity or equality (6 cases), and comparison or analogy (8 cases). The findings reveal that ~you (da) structurally attach to verbs, adjectives, and nouns in their base forms, functioning as predicates. Semantically, it conveys two core meanings: (1) assumption based on observation or perceived conditions and (2) expressions of similarity, resemblance, or analogy. The latter meaning is further divided into reiji (例示), which provides examples, and Hikyou (比況), which expresses similarity through comparison. These meanings are realized through patterns such as [V+you ni V], [N+ no you ni + V/Adj], and [N + no you da]. This study contributes to Japanese grammar research by clarifying the syntactic and semantic roles of ~you (da). The analysis follows the sentence study approach and the matching method, examining linguistic elements based on their referential meanings. By offering a structured analysis of ~you (da), this study enhances the understanding of its usage and provides insights for learners and educators in Japanese language studies.
Mapping Meaning in Kanji: A Quasi-Experimental Study on Learning Gains Among Indonesian Learners of Japanese
Japanese language learners whose native writing systems do not include kanji often encounter difficulties in using kanji effectively in complex discourse, remembering onyomi and kunyomi readings, and understanding their meanings. This study explores the effectiveness of kanji mapping as a strategy to enhance kanji comprehension and memorization among second-year students in the Japanese language Education Program at Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI). The research focuses on the Chukyu Hyouki course, which covers 220 N3 level kanji from the Kanji Master N3 textbook. Using a quasi-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design, the study was conducted over three sessions involving 23 fourth-semester students. Data were collected through pre-tests, post-tests, and questionnaires. The findings indicate a significant improvement in kanji mastery, with average test scores increasing from 66.6 to 88.1. Questionnaire responses further suggest that students found kani mapping helpful in organizing and internalizing onyomi, kunyomi, and bushu (radicals). This structured visual approach supported accurate contextual application and contributed to long-term retention. Overall, the results support the integration of kanji mapping into kanji instruction to improve learner outcomes.
Beyond the Classroom: Exploring Self-Directed Learning Strategies of an Indonesian Japanese Language Learner
Advancements in technology, particularly the internet, have provided learners with extensive opportunities to access various resources for independent learning. However, not all learners can effectively utilize digital media and technology, and many face challenges in selecting appropriate materials and methods to support their learning. This study examines the self-directed learning strategies of a Japanese language learner, addressing the following questions: (1) What strategies are employed for independent learning? (2) What media are used, and how does he facilitate self-directed learning? This study employs a qualitative research approach, specifically narrative inquiry, to explore the learner’s experiences. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed to identify patterns in self-directed learning strategies. Findings reveal that the learner adopt multiple strategies, including goal setting for both short-and long-term learning, adaptation, combination, evaluation, and validation. Additionally, the learner engages with various online resources, such as interactive learning platforms, receptive learning materials, social media, and authentic content. The study further identifies six key aspects of technology used in self-directed learning, with variations in frequency based on individual needs and perceived advantages and limitations.
Translation Techniques in Adapting AKB48 Japanese Songs into JKT Indonesian Versions
This study examines the translation techniques used by Rininditha Pradiza in adapting AKB48 song lyrics into their Indonesian versions for JKT48. Using a descriptive qualitative approach based on Molina and Albir’s (2002) translation techniques framework, this study analyzes four songs: Heavy Rotation, Kimi No Koto Ga Suki Dakara (Because I Like You), Ponytail to Chou-Chou (Ponytail and Butterfly), and Baby! Baby! Baby! The data were collected through text analysis and online interviews with the translator. The analysis process involved data reduction, presentation in tables and narratives, and the identification of translation technique patterns. The findings revealed that the Literal Translation Technique is the most frequently employed (55%), followed by Borrowing (24%), Amplification (13%), and Modulation (8%). The literal translation technique preserves the original sentence structure while Borrowing retains familiar words from the source language. The amplification techniques add explanatory elements, and the modulation technique alters perspectives to enhance naturalness in the target language. This study concludes that the choice of translation techniques significantly influences the readability and semantic appropriateness of the lyrics in Indonesian.
Directive Speech Acts and Its Response on Japanese Anime “Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken”
This study aims to classify the directive speech acts used by the character Rimuru Tempest in the anime Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken and analyze the responses of interlocutors to these directive speech acts. The research employs a qualitative descriptive approach, with data collected from character dialogues across episodes 1 to 15 of the anime. The data were analyzed and categorized based on Namatame's (1996) directive speech act theory. The findings indicate 24 instances of directive speech acts, categorized into five types: commands (meirei), with 11 occurrences; requests (irai), with 5; prohibitions (kinshi), with 3; permissions (kyoka), with 3; and suggestions (teian), with 2. Additionally, 18 responses to these directives were positive, while 6 were negative. Analysis suggests that the relationship between the speaker and the interlocutor influenced response types. Results also show that the character Rimuru Tempest predominantly used requests (irai) in their directives.
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Project-Based Learning (PjBL) Mini Drama to Enhance Motivation and Japanese Communication Skills of Tourism Students
This study discusses how the project-based learning (PBL) method in the form of mini-drama, can improve oral Japanese communication skills and understanding of Japanese culture in the tourism study program at Garut University. The theme of the mini drama chosen was the differences in the habits of Japanese and Indonesian tourists in the context of hospitality. The mini drama was performed in an annual event organized by the tourism study program. The mini drama is 25 minutes long with three different story segments and conflicts. This study used a qualitative approach to measure the improvement of Japanese speaking ability as well as students' perceptions of the application of learning methods. The results showed that the PBL method applied can improve the Japanese oral communication skills of tourism study program students, especially communication using respectful language varieties (keigo) and formal language varieties (teineigo). Students also gave positive responses to the application of the PBL method because it was considered to increase learning motivation, self-confidence, better understanding of the socio-culture of Japanese society, and the ability to collaborate with students from various levels. This study provides implications for curriculum development and Japanese language learning methods in tourism study programs, as well as contributing to research on the effectiveness of the PBL method in Japanese language learning.
Phonological Process of Word-Final Consonant Sounds in Indonesian Learners by Japanese Speakers (Case Study of Japanesia Online Course Students)
This study aims to analyze the phonological processes and contributing factors affecting the pronunciation of final consonant sounds by native Japanese speakers learning Indonesian. The research employs the theory of generative transformational phonology, using distinctive features to address the research questions. A qualitative descriptive approach was adopted, utilizing data from the Japanesia course's online class videos on YouTube, collected through observation and note-taking techniques. The analysis identifies three main phonological processes in Japanese learners' pronunciation of Indonesian final consonants: sound substitution (e.g., [n] to [ŋ] and [l] to [r]), elision of [h], and addition of sounds such as [u] following [r] and [s], as well as aspirated [h] after [t] and [k]. These phonological adjustments reflect the absence of certain Indonesian sounds in Japanese, prompting learners to adapt pronunciations to their native phonological system. Furthermore, the Japanese language’s predominant open syllable structure (CVCV) generally excludes word-final consonants aside from nasals, contributing to these adaptations.
Implementation and Effectiveness of Project-Based Learning in the Japanese-Indonesian Translation Course
This study aims to describe two primary issues in the following case study: (1) how Project-Based Learning (PjBL) is applied, and (2) whether students can implement “proactive learning,” “interactive learning,” and “authentic learning” through PjBL. Based on the findings, we also explore an outline and framework for PjBL, specifically in a Japanese Translation course. The study examines the effectiveness and implementation of PjBL by analyzing observations and interviews with students during the project “Translation and Japanese-Indonesian Subtitling for Occupational Safety Training for Indonesian Workers in Japan's Manufacturing Industry.”The results indicate that PjBL was conducted in five steps: (1) connecting to the problem, (2) setting the structure, (3) revisiting the problem, (4) producing the product, and (5) evaluation. We conclude that by following these steps, students effectively implemented “proactive learning,” “interactive learning,” and “authentic learning.”.
Pronunciation Patterns and Challenges of the Japanese Long Vowel (Chouon) /ei/ Among Indonesian Students
This study examines the pronunciation patterns of the Japanese vowel sequence /ei/ among 62 students from six universities across six provinces in Indonesia. In Japanese, the vowel sequence /ei/ is commonly neutralized to /e:/. According to Takayama (1992), this neutralization is incomplete in formal or careful speech, where /ei/ is pronounced distinctly as /ei/. Hashimoto (2006) observed that speakers alternate between /ei/ and /e:/, particularly at the ends of sentences. This research explores how Indonesian students, who typically pronounce words according to their written forms, produce the vowel sequence /ei/ in both the initial and final positions of familiar Japanese words. This study was conducted between January to June 2024. Participants were tasked with identifying instances where native Japanese speakers used the long vowel /ei/ in sentences. They then recorded their pronunciations of these words in various positions. The recordings were analyzed using PRAAT software. Results show that native Japanese speakers typically pronounce /ei/ as a long /e:/ with an average duration of 0.173 seconds. In comparison, Indonesian learners pronounced /ei/ in "reizouko" with an average duration of 0.204 seconds and in "yotei" with 0.148 seconds, indicating a tendency for longer pronunciation at the beginning of words. The longest recorded duration was 0.49 seconds, and the shortest was 0.04 seconds, possibly due to hesitation. Furthermore, learners tended to simplify the /ei/ sound, especially at the start or end of sentences. This study highlights the need for targeted pronunciation instruction and additional practice time in Japanese language curricula to address these specific phonetic challenges.
Ateji Meaning on Manga ‘Majo no Kaigashuu’「魔女の怪画集」
This study examines the meaning of ateji in the manga Majo no Kaigashuu by Hachi. Japanese writing often highlights language's dynamic and arbitrary nature, as seen in kanji readings (furigana) that deviate from standard usage, known as ateji. Due to this arbitrary nature, the intended meaning of ateji can sometimes be obscured, even though its purpose is often to enhance word meanings. This research seeks to clarify the meanings of ateji in the text to capture the author’s intent and minimize misinterpretation. A qualitative descriptive method is employed to analyze data by types and relationships, using Shirose's (2012) categorization of ateji and Sutedi's (2019) framework for semantic relationships and shifts. The findings reveal 26 instances of ateji, grouped into seven categories. These instances suggest that ateji conveys layered meaning, emphasises certain words, and specifies subjects. The semantic relationships include synonymy, hyponymy-hypernymy, and homonymy. Additionally, this study found alternative ateji readings where meanings remained consistent despite different kanji interpretations.
Politeness on Public Signs in Japanese And Indonesian Train Cars - A Study Of Linguistic Landscape
The study reports on the comparison of the esxpressions of politeness used in Japanese and Indonesian train cars. It aims to compare how politeness is expressed and in what situations or contexts politeness patterns are formulated on public signs in mobile public space, specifically inside Japanese and Indonesian train cars. This research is conducted under the framework of Linguistic Landscape approach, involving 36 photos of train cars signs in Japanese (19 photos) and in Indonesian (17 photos). This descriptive qualitative study analyzes signs by involving three types of public signs, including prohibitions, warnings, and instructions. The research results in some findings as follows. First, politeness marker in Japanese in any types of public signs of train cars involves the expressions kudasai or 'please' while that in Indonesian includes the use of the prefix 'di-' and the addition of lexical item of 'Mohon'. Second, in Japanese train cars signs, direct expressions appear almost in all types of signs but still using politeness, and explicitness is applied based on the situational needs of the signs, rather than the types of the signs. Similarly, in Indonesian train car signs, direct expressions appear in all types of signs and all signs use two types of politeness markers (lexical item of 'mohon' and the prefix 'di-'). The study found that he degree of politeness in sign expressions varies depending on the situation. Signs indicating danger or threats are typically less polite but more explicit, while those in regular areas are more polite but less explicit. This variation is evident in warning and instructional signs where the severity of the situation dictates the level of politeness and explicitness.
Social Networking Sites (SNS) for Japanese Language Learning
Social Networking Sites (SNS) have become an integral part of modern society, influencing various aspects of life, including education. SNS facilitates interactive, collaborative, and reflective learning experiences in language learning. This study aims to evaluate the use of SNS in enhancing learning inside and outside Japanese language classrooms. The research was conducted using a qualitative approach with a survey method, utilizing a questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. Quantitative and qualitative data collected from 85 Japanese Language Education Study Program students were analyzed and presented narratively. The data were examined through the lens of SNS use in foreign language learning and its impact on language acquisition. The results reveal that most students frequently use SNS platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter for learning Japanese, both for classroom materials and independent study. Additionally, students reported that SNS use has improved their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in Japanese. Moreover, SNS has been identified as a motivational tool, fostering students’ confidence in using the language orally and in writing. These findings provide valuable insights for future research on using SNS as a learning medium in Japanese language education.
Revitalization Of Learning Loss in Moji level Intermediate of Japanese Language Education Program Brawijaya University
This study explores the learning loss experienced at the Moji Intermediate level within the Japanese Language Education Study Program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over a period of two years, traditional face-to-face learning was replaced by online instruction, which affected the implementation of certain learning stages, such as kanji writing exercises conducted in the classroom. This research aims to identify the extent of learning loss during online learning, specifically with kanji writing skills at the Moji Intermediate level. A descriptive qualitative method was used, comparing course grades from both online and offline learning periods. According to Rajesh, Hasibuan, Susanto, Solihat et al. (2022), while learning loss has been widely studied with various approaches, few have addressed its impact on specific courses, particularly in Japanese language education. The findings reveal that online learning significantly reduced students' kanji writing abilities. As a result, teachers must adopt new strategies to compensate for this gap and ensure that students perform well on the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), which is essential for graduation from the Japanese Language Education Study Program.
Representation of Feminity in the 16th Century: The Main Character in Kei Ookubo's Anime Arte Series
Women in the renaissance era were portrayed as weak, emotional and illogical. This made it obligatory for women to be in the domestic sector, namely taking care of household affairs and limiting women to work. Until finally feminism was born in women who craved freedom. Today, feminism is present in various forms of literary works, one of which is the anime series Arte by Kei Ookubo. The purpose of this study is to analyze the basic character of feminism in the main character of the anime series Arte, Analyzing the internal and external factors of the emergence of the spirit of feminism. Both objectives are analyzed based on Sarah Gwyneth Ross's theory of feminism.This research uses a qualitative analysis description method with a literary feminism approach. This research uses a literature study where the object of research is the anime Arte which is researched using Sarah Gwyneth Ross's theory of feminism. It was found that Arte fulfills the five basic characters of feminism. First, Arte maintains she excellence in the arts. Second, Arte has intelligence equal to men. Third, the masculinity shown by Arte is the courage to speak up. Fourth, Arte understands the discrimination experienced by women so that she appreciates and praises women's hard work. Fifth, Arte has high creativity. Arte's inner voice to highlight she artistic talent is an internal factor in the formation of feminism. Meanwhile, the figure of father is an external factor in the formation of feminism.
Empowering Japanese Beginner Learners’ Writing Proficiency by Enhancing Complex Sentences with E-Modules
The Indonesian Ministry of Education and Culture has implemented an independent learning curriculum in all education-level units since January 2020. Many changes occurred with the implementation of the new curriculum. In independent learning curricula, fostering higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) is crucial, especially when developing complex sentence writing proficiency for beginners. This study aimed to improve beginner Japanese learners' ability to construct complex sentences in written activity by utilizing FlipPdf-Pro-based e-modules. These modules incorporated audio, video, and digital applications, making the learning process engaging and self-paced. The study involved 60 students in their third year who had been studying Japanese for one year in a high school in Malang. This study is classroom research using qualitative descriptive methods. Research data was collected through observation, tests, and questionnaires. Observations indicated enthusiastic participation, and questionnaires revealed that participants comprehended how to construct simple, complex sentences and could apply them effectively in written contexts. Over 80% of participants expressed a positive attitude towards learning through FlipPdf-Pro-based e-modules and recognized the importance of digital media in Japanese language learning. Furthermore, the test results demonstrated the participants' satisfactory ability to write complex sentences, meeting criteria in three key aspects: sentence structure in subordinate clauses, cohesion between main and subordinate clauses using the conjunctive phrase -no toki 'when', and coherence in the meaning of complex sentences. Based on test results, response questionnaires, and observations, these findings confirmed that using FlipPdf-Pro-based e-modules effectively enhances learners' proficiency in writing complex sentences.
Hitokoma Kanji App as a Direct Corrective Feedback Medium
In the current era, technology is utilized for various activities, including learning. Learning applications are one such example, and they can be used as a medium for self-learning and corrective feedback. This study utilized an application called Hitokoma Kanji for kanji writing practice. The research sample consisted of 14 participants from second-year students of the Department of Japanese Language Education at FPBS UPI. This study aims to find out the process of kanji writing practice and corrective feedback using the Hitokoma Kanji application for four meetings. The method used in this research is qualitative. This research is explorative or preliminary, so the data taken is based on observation activities through screen recordings to understand how the Hitokoma Kanji application can affect kanji learning rather than conducting tests. The result of this study is the use of the Hitokoma Kanji application as a kanji writing practice media, and the Extrusion/Lenght Check feature helps participants to remember the order of scribbles and the shape of scribbles on kanji by the writing rules.