Paper short abstract:

We present a trial edition of e-learning materials for non-native learners of classical Japanese, which we have developed for the purpose of creating an on-demand-based, systematic, and full-scale program to accommodate the needs of instructors and students concerned with classical Japanese.

Paper long abstract:

We present the "E-learning Materials for Non-native Learners of Classical Japanese," which we have been developing since 2014. The demand for Classical Japanese (bungo) education has been increasing among Japanese learners. Bungo learning proves beneficial and significant not only for aspiring scholars but also for general learners, as it deepens the understanding of Japanese language and culture. However, the learning environment for non-native students both within and outside of Japan suffers from many difficulties, including the lack of sufficient resources and/or instructors. The purpose of our new type of bungo learning material is to offer an on-demand-based, easy to use, systematic, and full-scale program to accommodate the needs of instructors and non-Japanese students, both for the classroom and for self-study.

As of January 2017, the following five chapters are online as a trial version available to a limited number of users.

(1) "Furusato" lyrics of Monbusho Shoka

(2) "Chigo no Sorane", Uji Shui Monogatari

(3) "Haru wa Akebono", Makura no Soshi

(4) "Hatsuka no Yo no Tsuki", Tosa Nikki

(5) "Honyaku Kushindan", Rangaku Kotohajime

Each text is presented in the following format:

[original text]-[annotation]-[recitation]-[grammar]-[exercise]-[text with gloss]-[modern Japanese translation]-[answer for exercise]

In addition, the reference section includes:

[list of declinable words]-[table of auxiliary verbs]-[table of particles]-[grammar explanation]-[vocabulary list]-[description of the texts]-[literary columns]-[materials]-[classical Japanese aspects in modern Japanese]

We demonstrate the trial version of the e-learning materials and make progress reports on the outcomes of the survey we are currently conducting among the users. Based on these analyses, we will suggest how to use the e-learning materials in conjunction with the classroom teaching of introductory bungo, or classical Japanese literature in general. It will be extremely important to collect as many opinions, suggestions, questions, and wishes as possible in order for our material to accommodate the broadest range of learners. As this material is aimed for non-Japanese students, EAJS is the ideal place to present it to ask for the insights of the international audience.