Using games to enhance basic Japanese language skills

Carolin Schneider

Dr Ayako Yoshino

(EAST1210 x Language Zone)

This project aims to explore whether playing board games with peers and fluent speakers can enhance basic Japanese language skills and foster a sense of belonging. Weekly co-curricular sessions will support beginner learners, complementing but not limited to the Basic Japanese Language 1 module, using games to improve script recognition, vocabulary, and conversational ability.

Using surveys as well as interviews and observations, it will ascertain the impact the programme has had on students' language confidence and personal assessment of their Japanese language skills. It may inform possible programming developments as part of the sessions offered by the Language Zone in partnership with language tutors or as co-curricular activities to support language modules, ideally for 2026/7.