Course Overview

In this course, we will read about and discuss various topics relating to the Japanese language and its relation to Japanese culture and society.

Learning Achievement

Students will be able to understand a range of issues involved with the use of the Japanese language in everyday society.

Competence

Competence: Communication ability, Ability for critical and creative thinking, Broad perspective and international character, Cooperative, independent, and autonomous attitudes
In this course, we will read about and discuss various topics about the Japanese language and how it is related to Japanese culture and society.

Course prerequisites

No prerequisites for International Students enrolled in the undergraduate English Program.　
Undergraduate exchange students (tokubetsu chokogakusei) cannot take this course. They should enroll in Japanese Socio-cultural Studies (Taught in English) A (3901612, Spring Term) or B (3901622, Fall Term).

Grading Philosophy

Reading and preparation (including answers to reading questions): 30%
Participation in discussions: 30%
Essay (Open book): 40%

Course schedule

General introduction to the course, discussion on language experience of the class participants
Lecture “What is a language”
Discussion on language based on reading texts
Lecture "Speech Styles in the Japanese Language"
Discussion on speech styles in the Japanese language based on reading texts
Lecture "Dialects in Japan"
Discussion on dialects in Japan based on reading texts
Lecture "Gender in the Japanese Language"
Discussion on gender in the Japanese language based on reading texts; Review of the different class topics and their relationship, and Q&A time
Essay writing; overall feedback

Course type

Lectures

Online Course Requirement

Instructor

Vanbaelen Ruth

Other information

Students are expected to participate actively in the class discussions.

Site for Inquiry

Link to the syllabus provided by the university