Yamasa's Multimedia studio has the full-time staff and resources required to produce customized learning aids for the Aichi Center for Japanese Studies (ACJS). The studio is also heavily involved in the development of the Online Center for Japanese Studies (OCJS) - the plan is to accept a fully online student body in the Spring term of the year 2001.
The key feature of the learning aids is that virtually none are programs that have been purchased "off-the-shelf" - instead they are usually developed from scratch by the multimedia studio's project teams. They have the following distinctive features.
1) Language neutrality
Most "off-the-shelf" learning aids cater only for particular language
groups. Yamasa's multimedia studio produces the learning aids in 5 languages at elementary level
before gradually phasing out the foreign language instructions as proficiency increases. This
is due to our commitment to teach Japanese using the direct method wherever possible - including
online.
2) Platform
No special software is required, not even a Japanese language OS or
Japanese
capable browser. This means students can access the lessons using their own laptops, or
anywhere
they may travel. Many of the students bringing their own laptops usually do not have a Japanese
OS installed - and we see no reason why they should be disadvantaged. Most of the online
learning aids
remain in Yamasa's password protected Student Network. All graduates are also
given access to the network.
3) Customization
The tests and learning aids automatically adjust the degree of
difficulty
to suit each learner. It enables students to pinpoint areas of weakness and consolidate their knowledge.
The degree of difficulty and pace of learning is also therefore determined entirely by the student.
Online testing is also used prior to your arrival. If you enrol in a Yamasa program we may request that you complete an online test before you depart for Japan. It is not the placement test, but acts as a detailed survey assessing your Japanese level. The actual placement test and interview occurs after you arrive at Yamasa. Why do we request the test - because the detailed information received about your level of proficiency is one of the reasons why Yamasa faculty are able to prepare higher quality programs for you than is the case with many other Japanese language programs. You are effectively helping the faculty prepare a better program for you.