Kanji orthography programs

[jolleycraig4420]

Hi...

I've been using Anki to memorize kanji readings, but I've been thinking it might be handy to have something that would help with writing (stroke order, etc.). Ideally I'd like something where I can write characters and get feedback on whether I've done it properly. I have a Linux tablet PC, so something Linux-native would be best, although I can (sometimes) run Windows programs with wine if needs be. It looks like there's a lot of great iPhone apps out there, but resources for old-fashioned computer users are harder to find...

Thanks!

--craig

[Belton]

I think the problem you'll find is that the audience for what you want isn't learners of Japanese as a second language but Japanese schoolchildren (and to a lesser extent adults).

While I've come across input systems the only educational program I've seen was for Japanese schoolchildren that didn't seem to be on public release.
http://www.d-dorazemi.com/index.html
An excellent pen input system --> http://www.visionobjects.com but it won't give any feedback.

A much better bet for what you want is Nintendo DS. Although the feedback is in Japanese and the programs are only available in Japan.
http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ds/avmj/index.html
http://u-can.sega.jp/
Both these titles give detailed advice and feedback.
http://100mas.jp/kakitorikun/
Kakitori-kun is a great program but while it does teach writing Its feedback is limited. It's more geared towards learning readings of words.
Maybe you have a DS already. They can be bought fairly cheaply second hand. The larger screen of the XL model is better for writing. The software is harder to come by outside Japan though. Within Japan you can sometimes find them cheap in Book Off.

iOS doesn't really have what you want either. Fingers aren't good for writing with.

If you want pointers for good handwriting have a look here.
http://www.geocities.jp/ki07ji/muryo/muryo.html

[jolleycraig4420]

Thanks! What you're saying makes sense (in light of my struggles to find anything) but seems like a weird gap in the Japanese teaching tool market. I am living in Japan, so I might see if I can pick up a used DS somewhere...

[mmmason8967]

I am living in Japan

Only one possible response to that: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XG63OtsKC7k.