LASA/EANLAS: Rethinking Trans-Pacific Ties: Asia and Latin America

The motivations of Guatemalans studying Japanese language and culture – a Personal Attitude Construct analysis

• In Event: Cultural exchange

Abstract

Why do we study foreign languages? A common goal for many students is gaining the ability to communicate with speakers of those languages, but in some situations students are unlikely to ever have the opportunity to talk with a native speaker. Despite that, some students continue to study a foreign language for a considerable length time. The aim of this study is to explain this phenomenon, specifically analyzing the motivations of Guatemalan students learning the Japanese language. The analysis utilizes the Personal Attitude Construct (PAC) method (Naito 1993). Results show that: 1) Japanese characters, grammar and way of communication feel unique for Guatemalan students; 2) the students enjoy understanding Japanese; 3) In the process of learning, the students feel freedom from the Guatemalan social situation and enjoy changing their identity.

Author

• Katsuyuki Arai, Asahi- University