Course Overview

In this course, we will read about and discuss various topics relating to learning Japanese in Japan.

Learning Achievement

Students will be able to observe effective participation and language learning in a new/foreign culture and society, with a special focus on learning Japanese in Japan.

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 theories and topics relating to learning Japanese in Japan.

Course prerequisites

None

Grading Philosophy

Reading preparation and timely submission of answers to reading guide questions, submission of journals and observations: 40%
Participation in discussions: 35%
Pair/group research presentations (see separate handout provided in class): 25%

Course schedule

General introduction to course; Instructions about the final project
Discussion about language learning reading text and how to proceed with the final project
Video about speaking Japanese and discussion
Lecture about Sociocultural theory and discussion
Lecture about Language socialization and discussion
Lecture about Communities of practice, part 1
Lecture about Communities of practice, part 2 and discussion
In-class discussion of project data and presentation preparation
Presentations, part 1
Presentations, part 2; Overall feedback

Course type

Lectures

Online Course Requirement

Instructor

Vanbaelen Ruth

Other information

Students are expected to participate actively and to respect one another during the discussions.

Site for Inquiry

Link to the syllabus provided by the university