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?