Japanese Language Education in Focus: A Systematic Literature Review of Learner Motivation, Technology-Assisted Learning, Pedagogical Practices, and Research Trends
Abstract
Japanese language education has attracted increasing scholarly attention in response to growing demands for multilingual competence, intercultural communication, and global engagement. However, recent research remains dispersed across areas including learner motivation, technology-assisted learning, pedagogical practices, and theoretical development. This systematic literature review synthesizes recent evidence and identifies emerging patterns in Japanese language education. Guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework and the PICo framework, the review analysed 15 peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2021 and 2025, retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science through a search conducted in July 2026. Studies were included only when they were substantively focused on Japanese language learning or education and aligned with the review questions. Quality appraisal was conducted using six criteria adapted from Abouzahra et al. (2020).Four analytical themes were identified: (1) Learner Motivation, (2) Technology-Assisted Learning, (3) Pedagogical Practices, and (4) Research Trends and Theories. Learner motivation was the most prominent theme, with studies emphasizing self-concept, identity, emotions, motivational regulation, and future aspirations. Technology-assisted studies highlighted the potential of digital tools, multimedia, artificial intelligence, and online learning environments to support engagement and language development, while pedagogical research emphasized communicative, task-based, and learner-centred approaches. Evidence concerning broader research trends was comparatively limited but indicated increasing attention to sociocultural, affective, and interdisciplinary perspectives. The review provides a focused synthesis of recent research and identifies areas requiring further investigation, particularly technology integration, longitudinal development, and broader theoretical analysis in Japanese language education.