Persian Learners Mastering Kanji: Strategies, Use, and Efficiency

This study examines kanji learning strategies among Persian-speaking learners of Japanese, focusing on variations induced by duration of learning, learner’s gender, and perceived effectiveness. Strategies are categorized into four types: metacognitive, memory, mnemonic, and cognitive. Findings indicate that beginners primarily use memory strategies, while advanced learners favor metacognitive and cognitive strategies. Gender differences are evident, with male learners preferring metacognitive and cognitive strategies, and female learners inclined towards memory and metacognitive approaches. The discovered mismatch between the frequency of strategy use and their perceived effectiveness highlights a potential gap in strategy selection and application. After reviewing the complex dynamics of kanji learning strategies, the study offers critical insights for optimizing kanji acquisition.