くずし字学習支援アプリKuLA 1.1.1

Have you ever been curious about deciphering ancient Japanese texts found in traditional artworks or historical literature such as books detailing swords from the Edo period? Interpreting these classical texts, predominantly written in "kuzushiji” - a script no longer common today, can be quite daunting. In response to this challenge, KuLA, short for Kuzushiji Learning Application, was crafted to facilitate the effective learning of kuzushiji on mobile devices.

By utilizing the assessment and social interaction features embedded in KuLA, navigating through intricate characters becomes a seamless and engaging journey.

KuLA is structured around three core segments:

• Learn: This segment serves as an educational platform for mastering the reading of hentaigana (obsolete hiragana) and cursive-style kanji. Featuring a repository of over 3000 character images, users can track their advancement through review assessments.
• Read: Simply memorizing characters is insufficient when it comes to interpreting authentic texts. This section allows users to immerse themselves in practical exercises by deciphering kuzushiji within the context of original Edo period texts. Presently, users can engage with excerpts from Hojoki (An Account of My Hut), Shinpan Nazonazo Sugoroku (New Edition Riddle Sugoroku - an illustrated board game), and Aramimei Zukushi Koshu (New Sword Inscriptions, Continued).
• Connect: Encountered characters that pose a challenge? Why not seek assistance from fellow learners? The Connect segment features social media elements enabling interaction with other kuzushiji enthusiasts online, including the option to share puzzling characters for collective assistance.

Embark on a captivating journey into the realm of classical Japanese literature and documents with KuLA!

KuLA originates from the Graduate Faculty of Letters at Osaka University as part of the research initiative "Developing an International Educational Program Related to Japanese Classical Books" led by Professor Yoichi Iikura. It received backing from the JSPS KAKENHI Grant-in-Aid for Challenging Exploratory Research in 2015.