AN OVERVIEW ON PEER LEARNING IN JAPANESE SPEAKING CLASSES – FINDINGS AND REMAINING ISSUES

Abstract

In recent years, on the basis of research findings about peer learning in writing classes, peer learning has been implemented in Japanese speaking classes. The paper synthesizes the findings of research on peer learning in speaking classes based on 04 factors introduced by Ikeda, Harata (2008), and then reports its implementation. Such factors are: 1) presentations; 2) implementation process; 3) the relationship between presentations and implementation process; 4) the awareness of participants. However, the quantity and scope of the studies on speaking classes remain limited. It is found that peer learning in speaking classes allows learners to reflect on their presentations. Besides, it also exerts positive effects on speaking contents and audiences’ attention. For further research, we recommend 04 directions to research on peer learning.