Technological innovation as a basis for the development of research in the field of Letters - The creation of the 'Multimedia Laboratory' at the Japanese Cultural Center in FFLCH

• Grant number: 25/13301-6
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Technical Reserve for Institutional Research Infrastructure
• Start date: October 01, 2025
• End date: September 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Interdisciplinary Subjects
• Principal Investigator: María Teresa Celada
• Grantee: María Teresa Celada
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Filosofia, Letras e Ciências Humanas (FFLCH). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• City of the host institution: São Paulo

Abstract

This project proposes the creation of a Multimedia Laboratory within the Japanese Culture House (Casa de Cultura Japonesa - CCJ) at the Faculty of Philosophy, Languages and Human Sciences (FFLCH) of the University of São Paulo (USP). The aim is to foster innovation in the professional and linguistic training of students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs in Languages, particularly through the integration of new technologies in teaching, research, and outreach.The lab will be installed in a renovated room at the CCJ and equipped with modern technological infrastructure, including a meeting and videoconferencing room. It will support research initiatives from the Departments of Classical and Vernacular Languages, Modern Languages, and Oriental Languages, all part of the Languages program, as well as research centers housed at the CCJ, such as the Interdepartmental Language Center (CIL).Key objectives include: Establishing an environment for virtual exchange programs with national and international universities; Offering training in consecutive and simultaneous interpretation; Producing didactic materials and institutional videos; Developing distance language courses targeting specific skills such as reading and writing; Supporting group activities with technological resources aimed at the ongoing education of language professionals.The project builds on ongoing virtual exchange efforts-initiated in 2021 with support from USP's Pro-Rectory of Undergraduate Studies-that have engaged approximately 170 students from various linguistic areas. These exchanges have involved institutions from Germany, Argentina, Mexico, France, the United States, Italy, and Brazil. Interactions occur online in one or more languages and are supported by digital platforms like Zoom, WhatsApp, Moodle, and Google Meet.By offering a dynamic space for collaboration and exploration, the Multimedia Lab is expected to: Enhance the training of future language educators, translators, and interpreters; Promote innovative and reflective practices in language instruction using technology; Foster internationalization through joint projects with foreign universities;Expand opportunities for linguistic immersion and student autonomy; Support outreach and extension programs such as community language courses.A total investment of R$ 110,849.00 is projected for implementation, covering furniture, equipment, and acoustic/technological enhancements. The FFLCH has already completed structural renovations as part of its counterpart commitment.The project will also be supported by the Institutional Research Support Office (EAIP), the local Research Ethics Committee, and the Florestan Fernandes Library-all of which provide ethical, administrative, and informational assistance to faculty and students engaged in research.Ultimately, the lab is envisioned as a transformative space not only for students of Languages but also for the broader USP community, contributing to equal access to advanced educational technologies and supporting the university's mission of inclusive academic excellence. (AU)