An Overview of Vocabulary Search Behavior Among Japanese Language Learners Worldwide

Publication of the "Vocabulary Search Behavior Information Dataset"

Abstract

In recent years, the use of digital devices, including smartphones, has become commonplace among Japanese language learners for looking up word meanings and usage. However, the actual practices of learners in their daily vocabulary searches remain largely unclear. To address this gap, the research team of the collaborative project "Investigation of Learners' Use of Dictionary Resources" at the National Institute for Japanese Language and Linguistics conducted a study on the vocabulary search behavior of 110 Japanese language learners across eight countries and regions worldwide. This paper provides an overview of the "Vocabulary Search Behavior Information Dataset," which compiles self-recorded vocabulary search activities by the learners, as well as a summary of the dataset's findings. The dataset includes details on the vocabulary search behavior over a continuous seven-day period, capturing the "5W1H" (who, what, when, where, why, and how) of each search. Additionally, it records whether the learners successfully obtained their desired information, along with their self-reported reasons for success or failure. By utilizing this dataset, it becomes possible to gain insights into the daily dictionary search behaviors and characteristics of Japanese language learners.