Paper short abstract:

This presentation will show the revised Classical Japanese e-learning materials titled "BUNGO-bun GO!" in which, we reformatted the basic lesson structure and created a simpler and more straightforward way of learning. We will make suggestions on how to use it alongside classical Japanese classes.

Paper long abstract:

This presentation will display the revised e-learning materials of Classical Japanese (bungo) for non-native speakers. Learning classical Japanese is useful not only for those who aim to be scholars of Japanese studies, but also for ordinary Japanese learners, in order to deepen their understanding of Japanese language and culture. However, the learning environment of classical Japanese has not yet been sufficiently developed. This learning material comprises a comprehensive program that can be used on demand, fitting the schedules and specific needs of teachers and learners.

　　　　Since 2014, we have created and test-used the prototypes for texts including "Furusato" (a song authorized by the Ministry of Education in 1914), "Haru wa akebono" ("Makura no Soshi"), "Hatsuka no yo no tsuki" ("Tosa Nikki") and "Honyaku Kushindan" ("Rangaku Kotohajime"). Surveys distributed to users of the test version indicated that navigating the format was difficult (especially on smartphones) and time-consuming. In May 2019, we thus presented a revamped set of learning materials and a redesigned platform.

　　　　In this revised version of "BUNGO-bun GO!" we increased the number of texts to 16. We additionally reformatted the structure of each lesson as follows:

[Text]-[Explanation of text]-[Modern translation]

The previous version organized explanations in the form of [grammar]-[comment]-[definition], now unified within the [explanation of text]. Important words/phrases are formatted as links, directing users to a vocabulary list; this will create a simpler and more straightforward way of learning. We also modified the layout to more easily relate the texts to their modern Japanese translations. In the previous version, we presented the text on the left side of the page and the translation on the right; this two-column format also posed further problems for smartphone users. In the revised version, short sections of the text are instead directly followed by their corresponding translations. Users can now read these sections in a more streamlined way, increasing the speed with which they navigate the lessons.

　　　　We will demonstrate the revised material, as well as make suggestions on how to use it in conjunction with (introductory) Classical Japanese classes.