Course Overview

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

Learning Achievement

To introduce students to ideas of Japanese thoughts, customs, habits, social rules, work culture, the systems of employment, and lifestyle, etc.

Competence

Communication ability 25%
Ability for critical and creative thinking 25%
Broad perspective and international character 25%
Cooperative, independent, and autonomous attitudes 25%

Course prerequisites

None

Grading Philosophy

Quiz and class discussion 10%
On-line assignments/quizzes 10%
Comprehensive final examination 55%
Final paper and presentation 25%

Course schedule

Class Introduction, Contemporary characteristics of the Japanese society
How can you be like a Japanese?
What should Japanese act to foreigners?
Japan’s Social Concept Part I
Group Formation and structure of the Japaense society
Japan’s Social Concept Part I
“ki”
The criteria of group formation
Japan’s Social Concept Part II
Explanation about final paper
Religion and Japanese Society
Emperor, Japanese people, and Shinto
Folk Belief and Cultural evetns
Differences in Japan and among Japanese people
Kanto vs Kansai
How Japanese see Japan
Japan’s transformation to the future
Student Presentation and Review Discussion
Student Presentation and Review Discussion
Comprehensive quiz and Overall Review

Course type

Lectures

Online Course Requirement

Instructor

Yamamoto Chinami

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