Aizuchi and ma (pause) in online interactions of distance learning classes of Japanese: an empirical study

Abstract

In recent years, classes and project works that involve online communication between foreign language learners of Japanese and Japanese native speakers have increasingly taken place.

In a video call, in order to have a fluent conversation it is necessary to be able to use appropriate aizuchi and to take pauses accordingly. Considering that the ability to communicate remotely in foreign language learning will be increasingly important in the future, this is a valuable attempt to convey the cultural context of the local learner in a global environment. It is well known that aizuchi tends to be used more frequently in modern Japanese than in other languages during conversation. Non-monotone aizuchi used with high frequency leads to good communication, and its frequency of use by learners has been considered, by previous research, a way to measure language proficiency.

In this study, I analyze the use of aizuchi and pause/interval ma in remote conversations between Italian learners of Japanese language and Japanese native speakers in Japan.

This kind of research on remote communication between foreign language learners and native speakers provides important suggestions to ease distance language learning in the future.