Japanese by Satellite: Effects of Motivation, Language Learning Styles and Strategies, Gender, Course Level, and Previous Language Learning Experience on Japanese Language Achievement

ABSTRACT This article describes a study of 107 high school students who were learning Japanese through the medium of satellite television. The investigation focused on factors that influence student achievement in Japanese in the satellite setting. Results showed motivation was the best predictor of Japanese language achievement, but the use of language learning strategies was also highly influential Students who frequently used learning strategies performed better in the course, thus validating the supposed linkage between strategy use and language achievement. Although auditory students were more motivated than visual students, nevertheless visual students significantly outperformed auditory students and hands‐on (tactile/kinesthetic) students in achievement. Girls showed a number of differences from boys in terms of motivation, achievement, and frequency of strategy use. Many concrete suggestions are provided for improving language instruction in regular classrooms and in the satellite environment.