Creating Mechanism to Integrate ERIN, a Communicative Approach Material with Structural Syllabus Material in Japanese Language Course

Abstract

This action research is conducted with objective to create a suitable mechanism that accommodates Erin ga Chosen: Nihongo Dekimasu hereinafter called as ERIN, with Japanese language syllabus in National University of Malaysia hereinafter called as UKM. Japanese language as a foreign language courses in UKM uses structural syllabus where the teaching of foreign language will focuses on the structure of the language. ERIN has been use for certain amount of time in Japanese language courses here since 2009 and a survey to acquire learner's perception towards the teaching material has been conducted. Findings of the survey suggest that students perceive it as a very useful source in learning the language. This is due to its approach that introduces the language structure within everyday situations which eventually led to a glimpse of Japanese culture as well. The current Japanese language syllabus in UKM and ERIN apply a different approach in introducing the language. On the contrary, the core content of the language between these two materials is more or less the same content. Multiple approaches applied in teaching the same content of foreign language will expand learner's ability to comprehend the language as well as the culture.