NHK has just launched a "grand design project" for its English-learning programmes, with the ultimate goal of offering learners of all ages a consistent approach to studying the language, Yomiuri Shimbun reports.
The impetus for the project was the launch of compulsory English at primary schools in April, while many Japanese companies have been making English their official language.
With the new project, NHK is hoping to help learners develop skills to express themselves effectively in English, rather than merely grappling with grammar issues.
Takako Nakamura, Chief Producer at NHK, says the programme is not aimed at teaching expressions for specific situations. "Instead, we want children to think, 'Oh, I liked this part of the show, and I learned this expression there. So I'll try to use it on my own next time.'"
For the project, NHK refers to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) which evaluates learners' language skills based on what they should be able to do with the language, rather than their levels of vocabulary and grammar.
NHK will adapt CEFR to Japanese learners of English for the three-year project.
In the initial phase of the project, NHK will focus on fundamental skills. The broadcaster plans to develop a TV version of its radio programmes aimed at middle school students, as well as to build a database for learners that will feature content from its past English-learning programmes.
NHK will also further improve its cross-media approach, by enabling related material to be found on the Internet or mobile devices.
(Source : Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union)
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