Research on the formulation and effects of teaching methods that enhance learning motivation in Arabic language

Although Arabic language learners and opportunities for learning the language gradually increased in Japan from 1925 when formal Arabic education began until the beginning of the 21st century, there is little research on Arabic language teaching and learning. To fill this gap, Akiko Sumi, Kyoto Notre Dame University, Japan, is working to better understand the learning environment of the Arabic language and social characteristics of Arabic language learners in Japan. Her ultimate goal is to increase autonomous motivation for Arabic language learning among learners in Japan. Akiko Sumi specialises in Arabic literature and language and is collaborating with Professor Katsunori Sumi of the Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Japan, who specialises in applied psychology. Together, the two researchers are working to develop a new hypothetical model and refine instructional methods for teaching Arabic language. A psychological element of this work involves assessing the psychological characteristics of Arabic language learners in Japanese universities. The researchers also held an intensive Arabic language camp in Rurikei, Kyoto, at which around 100 students were offered an appropriate environment to support and satisfy autonomy, competence, and relatedness. The researchers are investigating Arabic language learning as part of foreign language learning and second language acquisition, with a keen focus on learning motivation as this is a key factor influencing language learning and teaching.