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Lesson study at the foreign language university level in Japan: Blended learning, raising awareness of technology in the classroom

Bruce Lander (Kurume University, Fukuoka, Japan)

International Journal for Lesson and Learning Studies

ISSN: 2046-8253

Article publication date: 12 October 2015

1051

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine if a blended learning component can aid professional development, improve student ability and be approved at the foreign language level using the lesson study (LS) method at a university in Japan.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper introduces the three main theoretical concepts of blended learning, learner autonomy and technology in education before explaining the LS in full. Two groups of students were taught using almost identical syllabus. One group, the A group were taught using computer rooms for two semesters, while the other (B) group were taught in regular classrooms without computers for one semester then with computers for the following semester. The impact on the student and teacher will be discussed.

Findings

The findings of this study indicate that technology, in the form of a blended learning component added to a test-based curriculum, can enhance student test-scores, raise teacher and student awareness of technology and improve ability over a relatively short period.

Practical implications

This study emphasizes the power of technology in modern day education. Through blended learning methodology this study proposes that teachers in the modern age should adopt some form of technology into their teaching technique.

Originality/value

This paper is directed at teachers who are interested in integrating technology into their teaching techniques, through either computer aided or mobile assisted learning, but are slightly apprehensive in doing so. This study focuses on the introduction of an online and mobile digital flashcard tool called Quizlet. Very little literature exists in this field as the mobile application was only released in 2013.

Keywords

Citation

Lander, B. (2015), "Lesson study at the foreign language university level in Japan: Blended learning, raising awareness of technology in the classroom", International Journal for Lesson and Learning Studies, Vol. 4 No. 4, pp. 362-382. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJLLS-02-2015-0007

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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