Japan-based CALL Research: A Literature Review

Abstract

This article reviews the Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) literature emerging from Japan published between 2005 and 2008. The aims of this review are to document the technological environment available at various institutions as well as to define the characteristic of the typical Japanese student. What have CALL researchers in Japan reported? Is there any information about Japanese students that would be beneficial to structuring better CALL materials and learning environments? Based on the findings gathered the article then evaluates the quality of the literature to argue that limited evidence is available to develop a general understanding of the average English language learner in Japan and their access to technology.