Title: A web-based project for self-empowerment in language learning

Authors: Yoko Hirata

Addresses: Hokkai-Gakuen University, 1-40, 4-chome, Asahimachi, Toyohiraku, Sapporo 062-8605, Japan

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine Japanese students| perceptions of a web-based project which was aimed at encouraging students to make the most of various student-selected websites for lifelong learning. The project was intended to provide students with ample opportunities to use the web as a multi-purpose tool to accomplish various real-life meaningful tasks, such as an arrangement of a detailed itinerary for their own business trip to the USA. This student-centred, socially oriented language project was introduced to a blended learning course for undergraduate Japanese university students.

Keywords: web-based projects; self-empowerment; language learning; languages; Japan; world wide web; internet; student perceptions; lifelong learning; multi-purpose tools; real-life tasks; meaningful tasks; itineraries; business trips; United States; USA; student-centred projects; socially oriented projects; language projects; blended learning; undergraduates; universities; higher education; innovation; innovative learning.

DOI: 10.1504/IJIL.2011.037195

International Journal of Innovation and Learning, 2011 Vol.9 No.1, pp.113 - 126

Published online: 26 Nov 2014 *

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