Global Japan Studies
Course Description
Global Japan Studies is a comprehensive course that offers students the opportunity to study the history, philosophy, politics, economics, society, and culture of Japan. Through this course, students will gain a deep understanding of Japan's unique and complex identity as well as its place in the global community.
One of the primary objectives of the Global Japan Studies course is to help students understand Japan's current issues and think critically about potential solutions for the future. This is particularly important because Japan is an increasingly globalised nation that will have more and more interactions with other cultures in the coming years. By providing students with a broad range of knowledge and critical thinking skills, the course aims to prepare them to be effective global citizens and leaders.
Throughout the course, students will have the opportunity to research Japan using a variety of English language materials, including academic texts, news articles, and multimedia sources. They will also learn about contemporary Japan through a combination of factual knowledge, theories, and case studies. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that students gain a holistic understanding of the country and its place in the world.
In addition to its academic focus, the Global Japan Studies course also prepares students for a variety of practical applications. For instance, it is an excellent preparation for those who want to travel or live abroad in Japan, as it provides a strong foundation of cultural knowledge and sensitivity. Similarly, the course is well-suited for those who want to teach English or Japanese, or work in the Japanese hospitality industry. By providing students with a thorough understanding of Japanese culture and society, the course equips them with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in these careers.
Global Japan Studies offers students a unique perspective on one of the world's most fascinating and important countries. Through its rigorous academic content and practical applications, it prepares students to be effective global citizens and leaders in the 21st century.
Classes
Syllabas
Week1Time
Introduction to Global Japan Studies
What is Global Japan Studies?
Course overview and key terms
What is a 'global perspective' on Japan Studies?
Week2Time
History of Japan: Prehistoric, Ancient, Classical, Feudal
Activity: Japan's Global History
Explore the pre-modern history of Japan, focusing on its interactions with the rest of the world.
Week3Time
History: Early Modern and Modern
Explore the early modern and modern periods of Japan, focusing on how its interactions with the rest of the world.shaped its history including its rise as a global power.
Early Modern: Edo period
Modern: Meiji, Taisho, Shōwa, Heisei, Reiwa
Week4Time
[ON-DEMAND CLASS] Philosophy: The Japanese Mind
What makes a person ‘Japanese’?
What are some of the differences between Japanese and people from other countries?
What does it mean to be Japanese outside of Japan?
Week5Time
Politics: Government, Political Participation, Women Leaders
What is Japan's political system like?
Why does politics matter?
How can women make great leaders?
Week6Time
Economics: Japanese Economic Miracle
How did Japan achieve its economic miracle?
Why was Japan's economic miracle admired around the world?
What was life like in Japan during the bubble era?
Week7Time
Economics: The Future for Young People in Japan
What happened after the economic miracle?
What does the future hold for young people in Japan?
Week8Time
[ON-DEMAND CLASS] Society: Women in Japan
What does it mean to be a Japanese woman today?
How can literature help us to understand Japanese women?
How can having a global mindset help the lives of Japanese women?
Week9Time
Society: Rich Japan, Poor Japan
What happened to Japan's 95% middle class?
Why are there so many poor children in Japan?
Week10Time
Society: Ageing Japan
Why are there so many elderly people in Japan?
What problems do the elderly face?
How can we create a better life for Japan's elderly?
Week11Time
Society: Social Problems
What are Japan's main social problems?
How can we help hikikomori (social recluses)?
Week12Time
[ON-DEMAND CLASS] Society: Diversity in Japan
Who are Japan's minority communities?
What is the life of minority communities in Japan?
Does Japan embrace diversity?
Week13Time
Culture: Advertising Japan
How does Japan promote itself?
How does Japan use its culture to attract foreign tourists?
What are the consequences of increasing foreign tourism?
Week14Time
Culture: Traditional Japanese Culture
What is traditional Japanese culture?
Does it matter if young Japanese do not keep traditional Japanese culture alive?
Week15Time
[ON-DEMAND CLASS] Culture: Japanese Popular Culture
What is Japanese popular culture?
Who is winning gaming in East Asia?