Masato Kikuchi

Dr. Masato Kikuchi is an Associate Professor of Japanese in the School of Modern Languages at Georgia Tech. He holds a PhD from the University of Pittsburgh (1995), an M.S. in Intercultural Communication (1982), and a B.A. from International Christian University (1979). His research focuses on instructional technologies for language acquisition, particularly leveraging virtual worlds like Second Life for immersive Japanese learning. He has developed platforms such as the 'Sky Platform at EduNation III,' exploring 3D visualization for grammar concepts and comparative studies on 3D vs. 2D language learning tools.

Dr. Kikuchi teaches advanced and intermediate Japanese courses, specializing in CALL (Computer-Assisted Language Learning), technical translation, and intercultural communication. His work emphasizes integrating technology into language education, including courseware design for online and hybrid learning environments. Recent projects include software for virtual world-based communicative practice and research on NMT (Neural Machine Translation) as a pedagogical tool.

His publications span conference proceedings, courseware development, and software tools like the 'Understanding Written Japanese' CD-ROM series. He actively presents on topics such as virtual world design, information gap exercises, and Japanese course design. His research aligns with Georgia Tech’s focus on STEM-integrated language education and international collaborations.