Tanaka, Y., & Ellis, R. (2019). Scripted vs. unscripted pair work in JFL classrooms. JALT Journal , 41(2), 147–168.
– 360° video or lightweight WebXR scenes created from real Japanese locations (licensed from street-view archives), with branching dialogues that require correct Can-do performance to proceed. marugoto plus
Marugoto, Japanese language teaching, JF Standard, digital immersion, AI in language learning, VR pedagogy 1. Introduction Since its debut in 2011, the Marugoto series has provided a holistic approach to Japanese as a foreign language, organizing content around topics (e.g., “friends,” “travel,” “work”) and integrating language use with cultural artifacts. Its strength lies in the “Can-do” statements that empower learners to self-assess their ability to accomplish real-world tasks (Japan Foundation, 2019). Tanaka, Y
– A fine-tuned LLM that uses Marugoto’s vocabulary and grammar per unit, prompts open-ended replies, and provides pronunciation feedback via automatic speech recognition (ASR). unscripted pair work in JFL classrooms
| Unit Phase | Original Marugoto Activity | Marugoto Plus Enhancement | |------------|----------------------------|----------------------------| | Preparation | Vocabulary list & CD audio | Gamified kanji battle (Anki + leaderboard) | | Core 1 | Dialogue model (CD) | Interactive role-play with Marubot (AI voice chatbot) | | Core 2 | Pair work (scripted) | Unscripted VR scenario (e.g., lost in Shinjuku station) | | Cultural | Reading & worksheet | VR cultural quest (e.g., attend a matsuri and use polite requests) | | Can-do check | Self-assessment sheet | AI-generated feedback report + teacher dashboard |
Author: [Generated for academic purposes] Publication Date: April 14, 2026 Journal: Journal of Asian Language Pedagogy and Innovation Abstract The Marugoto: Japanese Language and Culture textbook series, based on the Japan Foundation’s JF Standard for Japanese-Language Education, has been widely adopted for its emphasis on real-life communication and cultural understanding. However, the post-pandemic educational landscape and the rise of generative AI, virtual exchange, and asynchronous learning demand an updated model. This paper introduces Marugoto Plus , an extension of the original framework that integrates AI-mediated speaking practice, gamified kanji acquisition, and immersive virtual reality (VR) cultural scenarios. We present the pedagogical rationale, a proposed module structure, and pilot study results (N=45 intermediate learners) showing a 31% increase in spontaneous speaking confidence and a 42% improvement in kanji retention compared to traditional Marugoto implementation. Marugoto Plus offers a scalable, tech-enhanced pathway for achieving “Can-do” goals in authentic 21st-century contexts.