KORELASI KEBIASAAN MENGGUNAKAN FURIGANA DALAM RIWAYAT PEMBELAJARAN DENGAN KEMAMPUAN MEMBACA KANJI PADA MAHASISWA PROGRAM STUDI PENDIDIKAN BAHASA JEPANG

Abstract

This study aims to describe the correlation between the habit of using furigana during the learning process and the kanji reading ability of students in the Japanese Language Education Study Program at Universitas Negeri Surabaya. The research employed a quantitative method with a descriptive-associative approach, supported by qualitative data obtained through interviews. Data were collected through kanji reading tests, questionnaires, and interviews conducted with a sample of 121 fourth-semester students with a Japanese proficiency level equivalent to JLPT N4.

The results indicate a negative correlation between the habit of using furigana and kanji reading ability, with a correlation coefficient of -0.345. This suggests that although a negative relationship exists between the two variables, the strength of the correlation is not sufficient to conclude that the use of furigana is the primary factor influencing kanji reading proficiency. Furthermore, the negative correlation implies that as the frequency of furigana use increases, kanji reading ability tends to decrease. Due to the relatively low correlation coefficient, in-depth interviews were conducted to support the quantitative findings. These interviews revealed that kanji reading ability is not solely determined by the frequency of furigana usage, but also influenced by learning strategies, personal motivation, and reading and writing habits without relying on furigana. Therefore, students are encouraged to gradually reduce their dependence on furigana.

Keywords: Furigana, Kanji, Reading Ability, Japanese Language Learning, Correlation