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The program will run with the minimal configuration:

  • Any version of WindowsTM (3.1, 3.11, 95, 98, NT)
  • IBM-compatible with 386 and 4 MB of ram or better
  • Windows compatible 8 or 16 bit sound card.
  • Microphone and earphones or speakers
  • CD-ROM and 2 MB of hard disk space
  • 256 Color VGA display
  • runs on some Windows emulators for the MACTM

The program uses a consistent set of tools to control the program flow and presentation:

Tool NameTool use
 
ParrotBasic tool for working with sound
Repeat after meOne try per line
Play entire lessonFor review
Hide ParticlesThis hides the particles when a line is displayed
Sentence scramblePick the correct order with the left mouse button
Test RandomPick the correct bubble with the left mouse button
Read JapanesePractice reading Japanese characters
Fast readSame as above but with one try per line
Translate J to EPractice translating stored sentences
Paper DictationWrite presented sound on paper and check
CompareCompare your voice with the target continuously

Repetition and variety are the keys to learning a language. These tools allow you to work on each lesson from several different points view. If you have mastered repeating a lesson to the computer, you can switch tools and let the computer dictate the lesson to you. This enables you to look at the same Japanese material from a whole new perspective. These tools are used consistently throughout the program so that once you learn how to use a tool for one lesson it can be used in all lessons.