Limitations: small sample, 8-week duration, single institution. Replication with lower proficiency levels and longitudinal retention tests is needed. Marugoto Plus is not a replacement for the original series but a pedagogical enhancement that responds to digital-native learners’ needs. By layering AI conversation, gamified kanji, and VR culture onto Marugoto’s solid foundation, educators can achieve higher spontaneous output and engagement without sacrificing curricular rigor.
– 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). By layering AI conversation, gamified kanji, and VR