연구홍보포털

논문 초록 (Abstract)

This is a basic study for conducting needs analysis(NA) of Japanese language learners at South Korean universities. It has two purposes: 1) to examine the theoretical basis and information collection tools of NA and the current status of research on the topic in South Korea; and 2) to present the direction of research on the needs of Japanese language learners at domestic universities. NA is conducted continuously and repetitively throughout the curriculum. It has also been shown to be capable of a considerable effect on the overall curriculum. Thus far, the questionnaire method has been the mostly widely used tool to collect information in analyzing Japanese language learners’ needs. However, information collection tools that can actually be used for NA in foreign language teaching are very diverse. After surveying earlier research, this study proposes a NA methodology. Here, two or more tools are appropriately used for TSA, LSA, and PSA, respectively. It presents the items to be reviewed to create a standardized questionnaire on Japanese language learners’ needs. It also presents the direction of NA in Japanese language education. Future tasks consist of a sequential review of: 1) construction of a needs questionnaire; 2) review of the questionnaire’s reliability and validity; 3) NA of students taking general education and major courses in Japanese; and 4) reflection of the learners’ needs and evaluation. The most basic task in curriculum design is a review of: 1) the expectations of learners, the users/consumers of education; and 2) ways to embrace and reflect their needs in the curriculum. If performed successfully, it will greatly help to create textbooks and to construct the curriculum for Japanese departments at universities.