EPOK - Exchange Program Okayama International Center
Okayama University
Japan

EPOK SYLLABUS
2014-2015

Table of Contents
1. Academic Calendar-

Spring Semester

3-

Fall Semester

4

2. Timetable of Courses-

Spring Semester

5-

Fall Semester6

3. Offered Courses-

Spring Semester

7-

Fall Semester

8

4. General Information-

Registration-

Credits-

Grading System

9

5. Course Syllabuses-

Spring Semester

11

・ Frontiers of Natural Science*

12・ English Language Assistant and Cultural Informant

13・ Intercultural CommunicationⅠ*

14・ Japan’s War and Peace*

15

・ Energy and Global Environmental Issues in Asia*

16・ Introduction to Modern Japanese Culture2*

17・ Introduction to Sociolinguistics *18

・ A Guide to Modern Biology*

19

・ Study of Japan

20・ Introduction to Life Science*21

・ Transnational human mobility in the contemporary world: Japan in a23

comparative focus
・ Political Economy of Modern Japan*

24

・ Asia in the world

25

・ Global Studies 1*

26・ Japanese cuisine and culture
・ Expanding Cross-Cultural Language and Communicative SkillsⅠ*

27
28

・ Tourism and Culture in Japan

29

-

Fall Semester

30

・ English Language Assistant and Cultural Informant

31

・ Intercultural Communication II*

32

・ World Conflicts and Peace*

33

・ Global Studies2*

34・ Introduction to Sociolinguistics *35

・ Japanese and Nature

36

・ The Cutting Edge of Agricultural Sciences*

37

・ Study of Japan36

・ Family and Gender in Contemporary Japan

37

・ Materialism in the West & Japan*

38

・ Introduction to Modern Japanese Culture 1*

39・ International Relations with special reference to Asia-Pacific*

40

・ Expanding Cross-Cultural Language and Communicative Skills II *41

・ Japanese Studies

・ Exploring Japanese Culture via Way of Tea, Chado II*

42
43

・ Globalizing Japan: Society and Culture from Multicultural Perspective

44

NB All students enrolled at Okayama University are welcome to EPOK courses with a few qualifications. The
courses marked * are officially open to undergraduate students at Okayama whose command of the English
language is adequate, and offer credits to such students.

For further information please contact International Center
EPOK Academic Advisors:
Mariko UZUKA (Professor)

muzuka@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

EPOK Contact person, Administrative office International Center
Yoshiko NAKANO

nakano-y@adm.okayama-u.ac.jp

2014-2015
EPOK Timetable of Courses Spring Semester●Japanese Language Course

Monday1

Japanese2
Japanese4
Japanese6Japanese2
Japanese4
Japanese6Japanese2
Japanese4Japanese2
Japanese6Japanese 1
Japanese3
Japanese5
Sport(badminton)Japanese 1
Japanese3
Japanese5Japanese5
Japanese3Japanese１
Japanese5
Japanese3Japanese1
Japanese through films1

Extensive ReadingEnergy and Environment Issues
in Asia

Study of Japan

Reading and Writing1
Japanese Culture and Society

Reading and Writing1
Japanese 7 (Speaking A)
Asia in the world: towards
a strategic partner










Expandingcross-cultural language
and communicative
Skills IJapanese 7 (Reading A)
Reading and Writing2

-Study of Japan

Reading and Writing2








Introduction to Modern Japanese
Culture2
Introduction to Sociolinguistics

Political Economy of Modern
Japan

Japanese through films2
Tourism and Culture in
Japan




Global studies1
Japanese cuisine andcultureJapanese 7 (Writing A)

4
2.30-4.00

※

FridayIntensivecourseThursdayJapanese4
Japanese6312.45-2.15

5
4.15-5.45

Wednesday

8.40-10.10

2
10.25-11.55

Tuesday■Ｇeneral academic subjects etcIntercultural
Communication I
Japan’s War and Peace

Frontiers of Natural Science
Japan’s War and Peace-Location: see each syllabus.

A Guide to Modern Biology
Transnational human mobility
in the contemporary world:
Japan in a comparative focus

Introduction to Life
Science-English Language Assistant and Cultural Informant (tba)-Independent Study (tba)2014-2015
EPOK Timetable of Courses Fall Semester●Japanese Language Course

Monday1
8.40-10.10

2
10.25-11.5
5

Wednesday

Japanese4
Japanese6Japanese2
Japanese4
Japanese6










Japanese 1
Japanese3
Japanese5
Sport(badminton)Japanese 1
Japanese3
Japanese5







Intermediate Grammar
and Vocabulary2
Reading and Writing1


3
12.45-2.15

4
2.30-4.00



5
4.15-5.45

TuesdayJapanese 7 (Writing B)

Intermediate Grammar andVocabulary1



Family and Gender inContemporary Japan






Reading and Writing2
Japanese 7 (Reading B)
Global Studies2
Introduction toSociolinguistics

World Conflicts and

Peace

Intercultural
Communication Ⅱ※ -Location: see each syllabus.

Japanese2
Japanese4
The Cutting Edge ofAgricultural Sciences
Japanese 1
Japanese3
Japanese5

Japanese 7 (Listening B)
Study of Japan

ThursdayStudy of Japan

Japanese and Nature-English Language Assistant and Cultural Informant (tba)

FridayJapanese2
Japanese4
Japanese6Japanese2
Japanese6Japanese 1
Japanese3
Japanese5Intercultural
Communication througheasy English andJapaneseJapanese though projectWork
Expanding cross-cultural
language andcommunicative skills Ⅱ

Japanese through News and Magazine Articles
Japanese 7 (Speaking B)Reading and Writing1
Globalizing Japan:
Society and Culture
from Multicultural
Perspective
Reading and Writing2
Media Literacy
Materialism in Japanand the West
Introduction to Modern
Japanese Culture1







■Ｇeneral academic subjects etc







International Relations:with special reference toAsia-Pacific-Independent Study (tba)Japanese studies
Exploring Japanese Culture
via Way of Tea, Chado II
Hawai‘i and Japan: Mobilityof People, Identity, andCultureOffered Courses 2014 -2015 Spring Semester
Classes

Timetable

Offered in
EnglishOthersLocation

Credits

10:25-11:55

C11

8

Japanese 2

Mon, Tue,Thu, Fri
Tue-Fri

08:40-10:10

C11

Japanese3

Mon-Thu

10:25-11:55

C24

8
8

Japanese4

Mon-Thu

08:40-10:10

C24

8

Japanese5

Mon-Thu

10:25-11:55

C23

8

Japanese 6

Mon, Tue,Wed, Fri

08:40-10:10

C23

8

Japanese 7 (Writing A)

Mon

14:30-16:00

MoriyaB22

2

Japanese 7(Reading A)

Tue

14:30-16:00

Morioka

C24

2

Japanese 7 (Speaking A)

Thu

12:45-14:15

Uchimaru

B22

2

Reading and Writing1

Tue, Thu

12:45-14:15

C11

2

Reading and Writing2

Tue, Thu

14:30-16:00

Ohira

C23

2

Japanese through Films 1

Fri

10:25-11:55

Sato

B22

2

Japanese through Films 2

Fri

14:30-16:00

Akita

C24

2

Extensive ReadingMon

12:45-14:15

Kuroe

C24

2

Japanese Culture and Society

Tue

12:45-14:15

Kobayashi

C24

2Japanese 1

Japanese
Language
Courses

Lecturer(s)Aoi/Moriya
Aoi/Uchimaru
Akita/Koba
yashi

Study of Japan■

Every otherWed

12:45-

YoshidaD22

1

Japan’s War and Peace□Mon

16:15-17:45

Ogawa

C11

2

Intercultural CommunicationⅠ□Mon

16:15-17:45

Nakamura

B21

2

Energy and Environment issues in Asia□

Tue

12:45-14:15

ShimadaC25

2

Introduction to Modern Japanese Culture 2□

Tue

14:30-16:00

Fujimoto

C31

2

Introduction to Sociolinguistics□

Tue

14:30-16:00

YoshidaA43

2

A Guide to Modern Biology□

Tue

16:15-17:45

Narimatsu

C23

2

Transnational human mobility in the contemporary
world: Japan in a comparative focus■

Tue

16:15-17:45

B31

2

Introduction to Life Science

□
■

Wed

16:15-17:45

Takei

☆

Asia in the worldThu

12:45-14:15

ShimadaA43

Political Economy of Modern Japan□Thu

14:30-16:00

Hirota◇Soen3

2

Japanese cuisine and culture□Thu

16:15-17:45

Uzuka

C21

1

Global Studies 2
Expanding Cross-Cultural Language andCommunicative Skills I
Tourism and Culture in Japan
Frontiers of Natural Science□Thu

16:15-17:45

Fujimoto

C25

2

□

Fri

12:45-14:15

Rucynski

C31

2

■
□

Fri

14:30-16:00

Ono

C23

2
2
1
1
3

Ono

Intensive

TBA

Suga

C21

Sports Practice (Badminton)Mon

10:25-11:55

Suzuki△English Language Assistant and Cultural Informant

TBD

TBD

Nakamura

TBD

Independent Study*

TBD

TBD

TBD

TBD

■:Foreign students only □:EPOK course and Reg. course students☆:at Graduate School Seminar Room, Basic Research Building (Kiso-Kenkyu-Toh) 1F,Shikata Campus
研究棟 2 階演習室３ △:2nd Gym◇:文法経総合22

Offered Courses 2014-2015 Fall Semester
Classes

Japanese
Language
Courses

Offered in
EnglishTimetable

Location

Credits

Japanese 1
Japanese 2

Mon-Thu

10:25-11:55

C11

Tue-Fri

08:40-10:10

C11

Japanese3

Mon-Thu

10:25-11:55

C24

8
8
8

Japanese4

Mon-Thu

08:40-10:10

Moriya/Kuroe

C24

8

Japanese5

Mon-Thu

10:25-11:55

Aoi/Uchimaru

C23

8Japanese 6

Mon, TueThu, Fri

08:40-10:10

Kobayashi/
Akita

C23

8

Japanese 7 (Writing B)
Japanese 7(Reading B)
Japanese 7 (Listening B)
Japanese 7 (Speaking B)

Mon

14:30-16:00

Moriya

B22

Tue
Wed

14:30-16:00
12:45-14:15

Morioka
Banno

C24
B22

Thu

12:45-14:15

Uchimaru

C23

2
2
2
2

Intermediate Grammar and Vocabulary 1

Tue

12:45-14:15

Aoi

C24

2

Intermediate Grammar and Vocabulary 2

Mon

12:45-14:15

MoriyaC24

2

Reading and Writing1

Mon,Thu

12:45-14:15

C11

2

Reading and Writing2

Tue, Thu

14:30-16:00

Ohira

C23

2

Japanese through Project WorkFri

10:25-11:55

Sato

B22

2

Japanese through News and Magazine Articles

Thu

12:45-14:15

MoriyaC24

Media LiteracyThu

14:30-16:00

Morioka

C24

Study of Japan■

Every otherWed

12:45-

Yoshida

D22

2
2
1

World Conflicts and Peace□Mon

16:15-17:45

Ogawa

C11

2

Intercultural Communication II□Mon

16:15-17:45

Rucynski

C31

2

Introduction to Sociolinguistics□

Tue

14:30-16:00

YoshidaC31

2

Global Studies 2□

Tue

14:30-16:00

Fujimoto

C21

2

Japanese and Nature■

Tue

16:15-17:45

ShimadaD25

2

The Cutting Edge of Agricultural Sciences□Wed

08:40-10:10

Ichinose◆2

Family and Gender in Contemporary Japan■Tue

16:15-17:45

Ono

C21

2

Materialism in Japan and the West□Thu

14:30-16:00

SuzukiC122Introduction to Modern Japanese Culture 1□

Thu

14:30-16:00

Fujimoto

C31

2

International Relations: with special reference toAsia-Pacific□Thu

16:15-17:45

ShimadaB32

2

Expanding Cross-Cultural Language and Communicative Skills II□

Fri

10:25-11:55

Nakamura

D22

2

Exploring Japanese Culture via Way of Tea, Chado II
Globalizing Japan:
Society and Culture from Multicultural Perspective□

Fri

12:45-14:15

Obayashi

C26

2

■

Thu

12:45-14:15

Ono

A33

2

Japanese Studies (Offered in Japanese)■Fri

12:45-14:15

ShimadaB31

2
2

Hawai‘i and Japan: Mobility of People, Identity, andCultureIntercultural Communication through easy English andJapanese

Others

Lecturer(s)Fri

12:45-14:15

Yoshida教育5

Thu

10:25-11:55

YoshidaE21

2

Sports Practice (Badminton)Mon

10:25-11:55

Suzuki△1English Language Assistant and Cultural Informant

TBD

TBD

Nakamura

TBD

1

Independent Study*

TBD

TBD

TBD

TBD

3

■：Foreign students only□：EPOK course and Reg. course students△:2nd Gym ◆:農学部 1 号館 2 階 1253

※NB Independent Study is to conduct/participate in a research project on a specific theme or to study a specific subject/topic,
related to a student’s major field of study. Students individually pursue this course under the supervision of a particular professor of
Okayama University in both cases. Please note, however, that there is a chance that an applicant is not able to pursue the particulartheme due to the limited human resources of the university. In such cases, those students may need to either change their theme or
decide not to take Independent Study.
Applicants are also not able to take Independent Study when the students do not haveadequate knowledge on the theme that they wish to study.

General Information
 Registration
You are required to take AT LEAST 7 classes per a week.*
You will submit registration sheet 1 in the end of first week of the semester.
You need to submit sheet 2 to finalize your registration.** After submitting
sheet 2, you are not allowed to change your classes.
Some of classes for Japanese students (classes taught in Japanese) are open for
EPOK students with some requirements. If you are interested in taking theseclasses, please ask your academic adviser in advance.
.
*Required Japanese course has 4 classes per a week. Study of Japan is counted as 1 class.
**The due date will be informed at EPOK course orientation.

 Credits
According to the type of the course, credits are prescribed as follows:
Final exam is held in the 16th week.
Category
CreditWeek
Frequency
Lecture/Seminar2
15 weeks
once in a week
Laboratory
1
15 weeks
once in a week
Credits of Japanese language courses are calculated as follows:
Credit Week
Frequency
Course2

15

once in a week415

twice in a week815

4 times in a week

Japanese through Films1
Japanese through Films2
Intermediate Grammar and Vocabulary 1
Intermediate Grammar and Vocabulary 2
Extensive Reading
Japanese through Project Work
Japanese Culture and Society
Japanese through News and Magazine Articles
Media Literacy
Japanese 7 (Writing A)
Japanese 7(Reading A)
Japanese 7 (Speaking A)
Japanese 7 (Writing B)
Japanese 7(Reading B)
Japanese 7 (Speaking B)
Japanese 7 (Listening B)
Reading and Writing1
Reading and Writing2
Japanese 1
Japanese 2
Japanese3
Japanese4
Japanese5
Japanese 6

For further information, please see 2014-2015 Japanese Course Catalog.

 Grading System
Grade Classification

GP

Mark (%)

Pass/FailA+

4

90 – 100 %

Pass

A

3

80 – 100 %

Pass

B

2

70 – 79 %

Pass

C

1

60 – 69 %

Pass

F

0

0 – 59 %FailCourse Syllabuses
Spring Semester

Frontiers of Natural Science

Title

Seiji Suga （Professor, Faculty of Engineering）
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8081

E-mail: suga@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: After the class
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

M.Taniguchi，G.Zheng，Y.Nishihara，K.Yamashita，N.Tada，S.Kim，Y.Gotoh，
K.Takai，K.Imamura，M.Watanabe，M.Saito，Md. Azhar Uddin，T.Tamura，Y.Kubo，
H.Funahashi
Intensive course (Spring Semester)

Timetable

C21

Credits

2credits

A variety topics concerning natural science and technologies such as physics,
chemistry, biology, mathematics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering,
informatics, environmental science etc, will be lectured by the distinguishedresearchers in English.
The purpose of the present program is to understand and overview the lectures to havea global perspectives.

Content

・Application of a Differential Equation (M.Taniguchi)
・Superconductivity Science and Technology (G.Zheng)・History and Application of Cross-Coupling Reactions Catalyzed by Transition Metals(Y.Nishihara)
・Age of meteorites and planets (K.Yamashita)・Materials and Mechanics World (N.Tada)
・History and current issues in superconductivity (S.Kim)
・Introduction to Information Science (Y.Gotoh)
・Development of Organic Synthetic Reactions (K.Takai)・Denaturation and stabilization of proteins (K.Imamura)・Frontier of environmental science (M.Watanabe)
・Water and material cycles in a watershed scale; from land to sea (M.Saito)
・Production of Energy and Chemicals from Biomass (Md. Azhar Uddin)
・Structure and Function of Hemoglobin (T.Tamura)・Regulation of Fruit Ripening (Y.Kubo)
・Fertilization in mammals - What's happened in the body ? (H.Funahashi)

Textbooks

Directed in each class

Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment
Comments

Attendance and evaluation in each class.

Japan’s War and Peace

Title

Coordinator
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Reading/Textbook
Means of
Assessment
Office Hours

OGAWA Hideki (Professor, International Centre)
Tel: 251-8516
E-mail: ogawa-h@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp
H. OGAWA
Intensive course for 7 days
Aug. 6- Aug. 12
Timetable
TBA
2 credits
Credits
An introduction to Japan’s experiences of modernization (Meiji
Restoration) and war & peace.
This course is an intensive one (7 day program) and also combines classroom study and field study.
Estimated cost will be approximately 15,000 yen.
The class is designed to serve the needs of students who;
1) Wish to have a general understanding of Japan’s modern nationbuilding after Meiji Restoration,2) Wish to be familiarized with Japan’s experiences of war & peace.
Day 1: Lecture Day: Japan’s Modernization- From Meiji Restoration toImperialism
Day 2: Lecture Day: Era of Repeated Wars
Day 3: Lecture Day: Hiroshima: From War-torn City to World HeritageCity
Day 4: Visit Kure (呉) and & Hiroshima Peace Park (広島平和公園)
Day 5: Visit Miyajima (宮島) and Ohtsushima (大津島)Day 6: Visit Shimonoseki (下関) and Hagi (萩), birthplaces of Meiji
Restoration
Day 7: Presentation & Discussion Day
Suggested & distributed as necessary
Participation (50%), One final presentation (30%), One essay (more than
1,800 words)
Monday 10:20-11:50

English Language Assistant and Cultural Informant

Title

Ian NAKAMURA (Professor, Language Education Center)
Coordinator

TEL:

E-mail: iannaka@okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Make appointment by e-mail or after class.
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Ian NAKAMURA
Spring semester(16weeks)Timetable

To be decided.

Classroom TBA and office (C403)

Credits

1 credit

Outline of Course

This course will offer the assistant-informant a unique and valuable
opportunity to help, observe, and understand how an English class isorganized and taught in a Japanese university. The assistant-informant
will participate in social interactions with the students in order to promote
language learning, international understanding and interculturalcommunication. The assistant-informant will be expected to makeconsistent efforts to help create and maintain a good atmosphere forlearning culture and language and ultimately communication.

Aims

1. To give the assistant-informant practical experience in creatinginteresting and useful learning opportunities for students.
2. To allow the assistant-informant to develop intercultural communicativeskills through regular class participation and contact with the students.
3. To deepen the assistant-informant’s interest in learning more about
Japanese culture and language through the experience of collaboratingwith both the learners and teacher.
Note: This course is especially suitable for EPOK students who areplanning to work in international settings in education or business.

Content

Session 1: Self-introduction and getting to know the students.
Sessions 2-8: Assist the teacher by participation in class and talking to as
many students as possible.
Session 9: Help students with rehearsal for midterm presentations.
Session 10: Be a good audience for the students and ask questions.
Sessions 11-12: Assist the teacher by participation in class and talking to as
many students as possible.
Session 13: Help students with rehearsal for final presentations.
Session 14: Be a good audience for the students and ask questions.
Session 15-16: Give final words of encouragement to each student.
No required materials

Textbooks
Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment
Comments

Regular attendance (including notifying when absent), consistent effort inclass, taking initiative, ongoing discussions with the instructor, and one
written report and interview to reflect on what was learned.
Please contact the instructor in advance to meet and discuss hopes and expectations
and to make sure this experience will be helpful to the student. Also we need to makesure it fits your class schedule.

Intercultural Communication I

Title

Ian NAKAMURA (Professor, Language Education Center)
Coordinator

TEL:

E-mail: iannaka@okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Make appointment by e-mail or after class.
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Ian NAKAMURA
Spring semester (16weeks)Timetable

Monday 5th Period(16:15-17:45)

B21

Credits

2 credits

Outline of Course

This course is designed so EPOK students will have a chance to study together withJapanese students and students from other countries. The focus of study is on learning
how to see and explain social situations in terms of descriptions and interpretations.
Besides sharing personal experiences, weekly scenes from a film which will be
discussed in terms of problems encountered and solutions discovered.

AimsStudents by the end of the course should be able to:-show improvement in some of the interactional skills necessary for effective
intercultural communication and understanding.
-articulate features of not only Japanese culture, but also other cultures (including theirown) in an objective and persuasive manner.
-give short presentations and participate in discussions in pursuit of deeper meanings
of aspects of culture not usually noticed or mentioned.

Content

Tentative outline (subject to adjustments and changes)
Session 1: Orientation
Session 2: What is culture?
Session 3: Images of Japan
Sessions 4-5: Images of other countries
Sessions 6-7: Description of social problems in local contexts
Sessions 7-8: Solutions in local contexts and beyond
Sessions 9-13: Student presentations and follow-up discussions
Session 14-16: Reflections on intercultural communication: What have you learned inthis course?
Contents and schedule of activities and topics will be adjusted to fit the interests andneeds of the students individually and as a group.

Textbooks

No required materials.

Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment

Grades will be decided by attitude, participation, and contribution to the building of aninternational community of learners. In addition, students will write a research reportunder the supervision of the instructor on a topic of interest in interculturalcommunication.

Comments

Typically, Japanese students who take this course need at least a 600 TOEIC score. Forinternational students who are not native English speakers, please contact the
instructor directly to discuss this matter.

Japan’s War and Peace

Title

OGAWA Hideki (Professor, International Center)
Coordinator

Tel: 086-251-8516

E-mail: ogawa-h@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Mon &Wed 2nd Period
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

H. OGAWA
Spring semester (16 weeks)Timetable

Monday 5th Period (16:15-17.45)

C11

Credits

2 credits

Outline of Course

An introduction to war & peace in Japan.
This course starts with the wars with China and Russia. Then, moves onto the issuesof WWI & WWII, followed by SDF’s post-war development and recent overseas
activities & cooperation with the US.

Aims

The class is designed to serve the needs of students;
3) Desiring a general understanding of was involving Japan,
4) Desiring to be more familiarized with Japan’s current political affairs,
particularly involving SDF.

Content

1. Self-introduction of participants and Aims and Contents of the Lecture
2. Meiji Restoration and thereafter
3. Japan’s war with China
4. Japan’s war with Russia
5. What did Japan do during WWI?
6. War in China
7. War in the Pacific
8. End of war: Hiroshima & Nagasaki
9. Occupation & MacArthur
10. Japan’s losing war & peaceful constitution
11. Korean War and SDF
12. SDF’s development and overseas activities
13. SDF’s future with the US
14. Field trip
15. Field trip

Reading/Textbook
Means of
Assessment

Suggested in each class.
One presentation, Two essays (less than 3 pages) and a report (less than 2 pages)

Energy and Environment Issues in Asia

Title

Kazuhisa SHIMADA (Associate Professor, International Center)
Coordinator

Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks
Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment
Comments

TEL: 086-251-8447
E-mail: kazuhisa.shimada@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp
Office Hours: 16:15-17:45 on Wed. and Thurs. at room E-403 (Appointment isneeded.)Kazuhisa SHIMADA
Spring semester (16 weeks)Timetable

Tuesday 3rd Period(12.45-14.15)

C25

Credits

2 credits

This course gives you the insight of Japan's (and Asia's) role to address theenergy and global environment issues by analysing natural resourcesmanagement, global energy and environment issues and natural disaster in
Asia. The course will be run by the discussion style.
To learn natural resources management, global energy and environment
issues and natural disaster in Asia. To learn Japan's (and Asia's) role toaddress the energy and global environment issues.
1. Guidance & Introduction
2. Environment, natural resources and energy issues andnatural disaster in Asia (I)
3. Environment, natural resources and energy issues andnatural disaster in Asia (II)
4. International cooperation for environment, energy and natural disaster5. Group presentation (I)6. Environment and energy issues and natural disaster in Japan (I)7. Environment and energy issues and natural disaster in Japan (II)8. Environment and energy issues and natural disasterin China, India and Southeast Asia (I)
9. Environment and energy issues and natural disasterin China, India and Southeast Asia (II)10. Group presentation (II)11. Environment protection and energy use
12. Natural disaster and its prevention
13. Japan's (and Asia's) role to address the energy and global environment
issues
14. Group presentation (III)
15. Round-up
No text book is needed. Handout will be provided.
To be advised.
Class engagement 30%, Presentation 30%, Essay 40%

Introduction to Modern Japanese Culture 2

Title

Masumi Fujimoto (Senior Assistant Professor, Language Education Center)
Coordinator

TEL:086-251-

E-mail:mfujimoto@okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: 14:30-16:00on Monday & 13:00 - 14:30 on Tuesday
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Masumi Fujimoto
Spring semester(16weeks)Timetable

Tuesday 14:30 – 16:00

C31

Credits

2 credits

Outline of Course

This course introduces students to Hayao Miyazaki’s anime world in order to examine
Japanese culture through historical background, social expectations and rules as they
appear in his anime. This course is designed for both EPOK and Japanese students.

Aims

Through this course, the student will understand modern Japanese society and culture.
In addition, the students will gain deep knowledge about Japanese animation.

Content

Textbooks
Reading/Handbook

1) Focus on general knowledge of Japanese animation and manga.
2) Examine some animation films from Studio Ghibli3) Study NARUTO and find similarities in Japanese society.
4) Understand Japanese modern society including gender issues, social structure, work
environment, and family dynamics.
Will be announced in class.
Will be announced in class.

Means of
Assessment

Attendance 20%
Participation 20%
Report 20%
Midtern Exam 20% Final Exam 20%

Comments

Some of the homework includes watching DVD and reading Manga.

Introduction to Sociolinguistics

Title

Hiromi Yoshida (Senior Assistant Professor, International Center)
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8934

E-mail: hiromi-yoshida@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Mon 5th and Wed 2nd period and by appointment
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks

Hiromi Yoshida
Spring semester (16weeks)Timetable

Tuesday 4th period (14:30-16:00)

A43

Credits

2 credits

Sociolinguistics is a study of relationship between language and society and the way
people use language in different contexts. By focusing on languages in Japan,
students will learn regional and social variation, language policy, and language
ideology. This class is open for both International students and Japanese students.
Through discussions and doing fieldwork together, students will learn from eachother.
To have a general understanding of Sociolinguistics and be able to explain some of
the theories in relation to their own lives.
To gain different perspectives on Sociolinguistic issues and be critical towards
language discrimination.
1. Introduction: What do you know about your language (s)?
2. and 3. Basic Issues and Concepts: various red and blue colors in Japan
4. Regional Variation: How long did it take to master Okayama-ben?
5. Regional Variation: Fieldwork on campus
6. Regional Variation: Presentation
7. Social Variation: “Yabakunai?” Wait, you love that or you hate that?
8. Social Variation: Onee kotoba- the language emphasizing on femininity
9. Social communication: Presentation
10. Texts and communication :), (*^^*), ネ申,orz, and LOL
11. Language Ideology: Kawaii “ha-fu face” make-up and wannabes
12. Specialized language: Fieldwork
13. Specialized language: Presentation
14. Preparation for next week
15. Class Debate
16. Wrap up
Provided during class

Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment
Comments

Preparation and Participation (30%), Paper (30%), Presentation (40%)
This course does not require any linguistic knowledge.

A Guide to Modern Biology

Title

Shizuo NARIMATSU (Professor, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences)
TEL: 086-251-7942
Coordinator

Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

E-mail: shizuo@pharm.okayama-u.ac.jp“Office Hours” are not fixed, but if necessary, please make an appointment with eachlecturer via e-mail using a handle name following the lecturer’s name in eachparenthesis in the Contents. Following each handle name, add“@pharm.okayama-u.ac.jp” for the lecturers of No. 1, 3, 5, 12, 13 and 14, and“@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp” for those of No. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11.
S. Narimatsu, M. Kano, H. Omote, H. -S. Kim, K. Tomioka, S. Jian-Ren, A.
Tominaga,
M. Ogoshi, T. Takahashi, T. Aiba, S. Arimoto, T. Negishi
Spring semester (16weeks)Timetable

Tuesday 5th Period (16:15-17:45()

C23
2 credits
Credits
The fundamental knowledge of life science in the following areas will be lectured:
microbiology, infection, antibiotics, drug metabolism, genetics, gene expression,
mutation, carcinogen, plants, biological clock, brain, membrane transporter and soon. After the lectures on the fundamental knowledge, the latest topics on biology will
be introduced.
1. To obtain basic knowledge in biology to understand modern biology.
2. To survey recent progress in different frontiers in biological sciences.
1) Orientation and introduction to modern biology
Shizuo Narimatsu(shizuo)2) The role of drug-metabolizing enzymes
Shizuo Narimatsu
3) Perspective of biology opened by new technologies-1
Mitsunobu Kano
(mitkano)
4) Perspective of biology opened by new technologies-2
Mitsunobu Kano
5) Mechanism of membrane transporters
Hiroshi Omote (omote)6) Control of infectious diseases
Hye-Sook Kim (hskm)
7) Biological clock and photoperiodism in insects
Kenji Tomioka(tomioka)8) Structural biology of membrane proteins
Shen Jian-Ren (shen)9) Mobile DNA
Akira Tominaga(atomi)10) Homeostasis in vertabrates
Maho Ogoshi(ogoshi-m)11) Developmental genetics of flowering plants
Taku Takahashi(perfect)12) Pharmaceutical literacy on medication
Tetsuya Aiba (taiba)13) Environmental mutagen and carcinogen
Sakae Arimoto(arimoto)
14) Biology of mutation
Tomoe Negishi (isaka)15) Adverse effects of drugs-1
Shizuo Narimatsu16) Adverse effects of drugs-2 and Total discussion
Shizuo Narimatsu

Textbooks
Reading/Handbook

Suggested in each class.

Means of
Assessment

Attendance 50 % and Activity, Results of Mini-Tests and Reports 50 %Comments

Active students are welcomed to the class.

Study of Japan

Title

Mariko UZUKA（Professor, International Center）
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8533

E-mail: muzuka@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: by appointment
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks

Mariko Uzuka (Professor, International Center)
Spring semester (16weeks)Timetable

See below

D22

Credits

1 credit

This course is designed to enable students to learn more about various
aspects of Japanese culture and society through their first handexperience. Students will go to Kurashiki City to learn modern andtraditional aspect of Okayama. Also, students will have a chance to visit
Kotohira Shrine in Kagawa Prefecture. Furthermore, there will be
opportunities to visit Japanese schools and meet local students.
1. To be familiar with local culture and customs.
2. To interacting with local people.
Session 1 : Orientation (Wednesday from 12:45 at D22)
Session covered in this course are as follows:
Visiting Okayama Minami Senior High School
Appreciating and Practicing Japanese Calligraphy
Visiting Akaiwa City in Okayama and visit elementary schools*Homestay (Optional
Handouts will be provided

Reading/Handbook

Means of
Assessment

Comments

Participation and Attitude 70% and Report 30%
NB Due to the nature of the course, lateness and absences are strongly
discouraged. When you cannot come to class, notify the coordinator inadvance if at all possible, by sending an e-mail or leaving a message in her
office.
Participation fees - about ¥ 2,900, but differs depending on course.

TitleCoordinator

Introduction to Life Science
Kohji TAKEI (Department of Neuroscience, Division of Biochemistry, Graduate
School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences)
TEL: 086-235-7120
E-mail: kohji@md.okayama-u.ac.jp
Office Hours: Anytime, making an appointment by phone or by e-mail is preferred

Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Kohji TAKEI, Tetsuya Takeda, Ken Takahashi, Hiroshi Katayama, Isao Date, Shinichi
Toyooka, Shinichi Toyooka, Toshihiko Matsuo, Hideki Matsui, Hiroshi Morimatsu,
Hiroshi Morimatsu, Satoshi Kubota, Michiyo Nakano, Takuo Kuboki, Masamitsu
Ohshima, Yoshihiko Soga
Spring semester (16weeks)Timetable

Wednsday5thperiod(16:15- 17:45)

Graduate School Seminar Room,
Basic Research Building
2 credits
Credits(Kiso-Kenkyu-Toh) 1F,Shikata
CampusA small class-course focused on life science. The introductory lectures deal withseveral topics from basic researches to clinical subjects. The course includes not only
lectures, but also demonstrations at research laboratories and tours of the latest clinicalfacilities.
1. To understand basic structures and mechanisms of the human body and the cells
2. To understand how life science is studied
3. To understand medical services provided at Okayama University
1
Introduction of the course
Cell Biology (1): Cell membranes and membrane traffic(Kohji Takei, Dept. Neuroscience)2
Cell Biology (2): Visualization of the cell (demonstration)(Tetsuya Takeda, Dept. Neuroscience)3
Sensory Physiology: How do we sense the world(Ken Takahashi, Dept. Mechanobiology & Cardiovascular Physiology)
4
Nerve Physiology: Cutting-edge of neurosurgical operation(Ken Takahashi, Dept. Mechanobiology & Cardiovascular Physiology)
5
Molecular Biology: Cell division and cancer(Hiroshi Katayama, Dept. Molecular Genetics)
6
Neurosurgery: Cutting-edge of neurosurgical operation(Isao Date, Dept. Neurological Surgery)
7
Clinical Genomic Medicine: Driver mutation and therapeutic target oflung cancer(Shinichi Toyooka, Dept. Clinical Genomic Medicine)
8
Ophthalmology: The process to develop trehalose eye drops, Retinal
diseases and retinal prosthesis(Toshihiko Matsuo, Dept. Ophthalmology)
9
Protein Therapy(Hideki Matsui, Dept. Cellular Physiology)
10
Anesthesiology (1): Operation room
(Hiroshi Morimatsu, Dept. Anesthesiology)
11
Anesthesiology (2): Intensive care unit
(Hiroshi Morimatsu, Dept. Anesthesiology)
12
Cell Signaling Biology: Cellular communication and CCN family
proteins(Satoshi Kubota, Dept. Biochemistry and Molecular Dentistry)
13
Molecular Microbiology: Oral bacteria(Michiyo Nakano, Dept. Pediatric Dentistry)

14

15

Textbooks
Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment
Comments

Biological Regenerative Medicine in Prosthodontic Practice: To
Attain Reliable and Sophisticated Oral Implant Therapy(Takuo Kuboki, Masamitsu Ohshima, Dept. Oral Rehabilitation andRegenerative Medicine)
Oral Health and Systemic Health(Yoshihiko Soga, Div. Hospital Dentistry)

The human Body; An Illustrated Guide to its Structure, Function, and Disorders (Ed.
Charles Clayman, Dorling Kindersley). The textbooks will be rented out.
Molecular Biology of the Cell (Ed. Bruce Alberts, et al., Garland Science)
Evaluated by each lecturer on the basis of participation, performance and/or
examination

TitleTransnational human mobility in the contemporary world:
Japan in a comparative focus
Mayumi ONO（Senior Assistant Professor, International Center）

Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8577

E-mail: mayumiono@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Thursday 3rd and 4th Period
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Mayumi ONO
Spring semester (16weeks)Timetable

Tuesday 5thperiod(16 :15-17:45)

B31

Credits

2 credits

Outline of Course

This course explores globalizing Japanese society and culture focusing on thetransnational human mobility beyond Japanese national borders, from ananthropological perspective. The course starts with an overview of themodernization of Japanese society and culture. Students will learn about thediversification of transnational mobility and its effect on the culture and lifestyle ofJapanese people.

AimsStudents will learn key themes and issues surrounding transnational mobility ofpeople, goods, and corporations in contemporary Japan from comparative
perspective. The student will gain a deeper understanding of and a fresh view ofhis/her own culture from active and collaborative learning with students withdiverse backgrounds.

Content

1. Introduction
2. Japanese out-migrants and Nikkei communities
3. Internationalization and the search for national identity
4. Japanese multi-national corporations
5. Returnees (Kikokushijyo)
6. Feminization of migration
7. Marriage migration in East Asia
8. Marriage migration in rural Japan
9. Working holiday makers
10. Lifestyle migration
12. Pensioners on the move
13. International schooling and child-rearing
14. Group presentation 1
15. Group presentation 2

Textbooks

Roger Goodman, Ceri Peach, Ayumi Takenaka, and Paul While (eds.) (2003)
Global Japan: The experience of Japan’s new immigrant and overseas
communities. Routledge.

Reading/Handbook

Necessary book chapters and articles will be provided.

Means of Assessment

Grading will be as follows: Attendance and participation (30%), Group
presentation (30%), and Final report (40%)

Comments

TitlePolitical Economy of Modern Japan
Yoko HIROTA (Associate Professor, Faculty of Economics)

Coordinator

TEL:

E-mail: yokoh@e.okayama-u.ac.jp

Hirota is now away from the office until the end of July.
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location
Outline of Course

Aims

If you need any help, pleasecontact Prof. Tsuri at ‘tsuri@okayama-u.ac.jp’.
Masao Tsuri, Hiroko Okudaira, Hisashi Sawaki, Daiji Fujii, Youichiro Higashi
Spring semester
ThursdayTimetable(16weeks)
14：30-16：00
2 credits
Graduate School of Humanities and Social
そうえん
Credits
Sciences

総演(3)The class is held in English, and is for both international and Japanese students. It offers
elementary knowledge concerning the Japanese social economy, and discusses somerelevant themes among participants. The number of attendees is limited to twenty.
1. To discuss the problems of politics and/or economy in Japan between each lecturer andparticipants in this course.
2. To learn the structure of Japanese society through discussions in this course.
1 Masao Tsuri, Japanese Economy and Economic Policy I
2 Masao Tsuri, Japanese Economy and Economic Policy II
3 Masao Tsuri, Japanese Economy and Economic Policy III
4 Hiroko Okudaira, Introduction to Japanese Labor Market I (Experiment)
5 Hiroko Okudaira, Introduction to Japanese Labor Market II (Male-Female
Wage Differentials)
6 Hiroko Okudaira, Introduction to Japanese Labor Market III (Program Evaluation andSpurious Correlation)
7 Hisashi Sawaki, Japan and the World Economy I

Content

8 Hisashi Sawaki, Japan and the World Economy II
9 Hisashi Sawaki, Japan and the World Economy III

Textbook
Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment
Comments

10 Daiji Fujii, Variety of Management practices in Japanese firms I
11 Daiji Fujii, Variety of Management practices in Japanese firms II
12 Daiji Fujii, Variety of Management practices in Japanese firms III
13 Youichiro Higashi, Applications of Game theory to Economic and Social Problems inJapan I
14 Youichiro Higashi, Applications of Game theory to Economic and Social Problems inJapan II
15 Youichiro Higashi, Applications of Game theory to Economic and Social Problems inJapan III
16 Review
Handouts will be provided in each class.
Attendance, participation, and essays

Asia in the world

Title

Kazuhisa SHIMADA(Associate Professor, International Center)
Coordinator

Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks

TEL: 086-251-8447
E-mail: kazuhisa.shimada@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp
Office Hours: 16:15-17:45 on Wed. and Thurs. at room E-403 (Appointment isneeded.)Kazuhisa SHIMADA
Spring semester (16 weeks)Timetable

Thursday 3rd Period (12.45-14.15 )A43
2 credits
Credits
This course gives you the insight of Japan and Asia in the world. Morespecifically, it elucidates if Asia has any difference from the rest of theworld. The course looks at Asia from the various angles, such as history,society, culture and politics in Asia. The course will be run by the discussion
style.
To learn Asia and Japan in the world. To have deeper understanding ofAsia.
1. Guidance & Introduction
2. Where is Asia?
3. The diversity of Asia (I)
4. The diversity of Asia (II)
5. Presentation (I)6. Asia and the West (I)7. Asia and the West (II)
8. History, politics and society in Northeast Asia
9. History, politics and society in Southeast Asia
10. History, politics and society in South and Southwest Asia
11. Presentation (II)12. Asian regionalism (I)
13. Asian regionalism (II)14. Presentation (III)
15. Round-up

Kazuhisa Shimada, “Working together” for Peace and Prosperity ofSoutheast Asia, 1945-1968: The Birth of the ASEAN Way, 大学教育出版(Daigaku Kyoiku Syuppan), 2013

Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment
Comments

Class engagement 30%, Presentation 30%, Essay 40%

Global Studies 1

Title

Masumi Fujimoto (Senior Assistant Professor, Language Education Center)
Coordinator

TEL:086-251-

E-mail:mfujimoto@okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: 14:30-16:00 on Thursday
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Masumi Fujimoto
Spring semester(16weeks)Timetable

Thursday 5th period (16:15-17:45 )C25

Credits

2 credits

The word “globalization” can be found on newspaper every day in multifields in the world. Since world has become more and more borderless,understanding other culture helps people to follow global movement
easily. This course helps students to gain skills to accept and enjoy thediversity when you are in a foreign country. Students will work as agroup. From the third to the fourteenth session, a different group will beassigned a specific topic and present findings. Depending on the classsize, a number of assignments for each group will be determined.
This course is designed to help students to develop global skills that are necessary
for any international fields. By the end of the course, students will be able to:acquire communication skills to understand different views and opinions in theworld
be open minded
accept and enjoy differences
gain worldwide views
work with other students (Japanese and/or international)
gain listening skills
Since this is an active learning course, after the second session,
each week topic will be determined by students.
1. Introduction of the course
2. Examination of world views
3. Each session topic will be discussed
4. - 14. Group discussions and presentations
15. Round up

Textbooks

Will be announced in class.

Reading/Handbook

Will be announced in class.

Means of
Assessment

Comments

Attendance 10%
Participation 20%
Group Work 20%
Presentation 20% Self-evaluation 30%
This is an active learning course. Students are encouraged to be open-minded and toshare opinions.

Japanese cuisine and culture

Title

Mariko UZUKA（Professor, International Center）
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8533

E-mail: muzuka@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: by appointment
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks
Reading/Handbook

Mariko UZUKA
Spring semester (16weeks)Timetable

Thursday 5th period (16:15-17:45)

C21

Credits

2 credits

This course will provide opportunities to learn and experience about thebasic concept of the cultural world heritage, Japanese cuisine, and theculture behind the foods.
Students should be able :To understand Japanese cuisine and its cultural background.
To understand what is authentic Japanese food.
To share and discuss their opinions about and experiences with Japanesefood.
1Introduction
2-3
The cultural world heritage, Japanese cuisine
4-6
Fundamentals of Japanese cuisine: Kome, Miso, and Shoyu
7-8
Bento(lunch box) culture
9-10 Gotochi Gourmet(local special food) culture
11-12 Japanese fast food –Soba, Udon, Gyudon(beef bowl) and more
13
Izakaya(Japanese pub) culture
14
Japanese food in Gorumet Manga
15
Healthy eating habits

No textbook is required and handouts will be provided.
Students are expected to spend money on food.
Some Japanese language knowledge is necessary. For non-Japanese students,
dictionary is strongly recommended.

Means of Assessment

Participation 30%, Presentations 30%, Essay 40%

Comments

Both Japanese and international students are welcome.

Expanding Cross-Cultural Language andCommunicative SkillsⅠ

Title

John RUCYNSKI (Associate Professor, Language Education Center)
Coordinator

TEL:086-251-7273

E-mail: rucyns-j@okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: By appointment (C414)
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
LocationJohn RUCYNSKI
Spring semester(15weeks)Timetable

Friday3rd period (12:45-14:15)

C31

Credits

2 credits

This course is designed to promote communication and understanding between EPOK
students and Japanese students. The content of the course will focus on similarities andOutline of Course

differences between Japanese and foreign culture. Materials such as short readings andmultimedia clips will be used to facilitate discussions on aspects of both traditionaland modern culture.
By the end of the course, students should be able to:-explain key aspects of Japanese and their own culture, including a deeper

Aims

understanding of how cultural beliefs evolve.
-understand the core differences between Japanese culture and their own culture.
-improve their ability to use English appropriately as an international language indiscussions and presentations.
In this course, Japanese and non-Japanese students will interact in an effort to deepen
their understanding of their respective cultures. Class topics will partly be determinedby student interests, but will include a range of topics related to both modern andContent

traditional Japan. Additionally, non-Japanese students will be asked to share
information about their own cultures. Class activities will focus on discussions andpresentations. Materials will be a mix of both teacher and student-selected readings andmultimedia.

Textbook

Means of
Assessment

Comments

No textbook. The teacher will provide materials and students will do independent
research.
Grades will be determined by active participation in class activities, quality ofpresentations, and reflective essays. Students who are absent from more than threeclasses will not be able to receive credit for this course.
1) Although this class is offered in both the spring and the fall semesters, you do notneed to take the spring class in order to take the fall class. However, you are free totake both classes if you wish, as the instructor and content will be different.
2) Non-native English speakers who wish to take this course will need at least a 600
TOEIC score or equivalency. If you have not taken the TOEIC, you may also contact
the instructor directly.

Tourism and Culture in Japan

Title

Mayumi ONO（Senior Assistant Professor, International Center）
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8577

E-mail: mayumiono@cc.okayama-u.ac.jprdthOffice Hours: Thursday 3 &4 period
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Mayumi ONO
Spring semester (16weeks)Timetable

Friday 4th period(14:30-16:00)

C23

Credits

2 credits

Outline of Course

This course explores Japanese tourism and travel culture from an anthropologicalperspective. The course starts with an overview of history and concept of tourism. It
will further examine the cultural distinctiveness of Japan as a tourism destination
through various forms of tourism. The course further takes a critical look at how
Japan, with its cultural distinctiveness and uniqueness, experiences transformations
throuh tourism development and by hosting foreinge tourists, within the broader
global context.

Aims

Students will learn how to critically and comparatively analyze tourism and culture
from an anthropological point of view. The student will gain a deeper understandingof and a fresh view of his/her own culture from active and collaborative learningwith students with diverse backgrounds.

Content

1. Introduction
2. Travel and pilgrimage
3. Meaning of tradition in Japanese tourism
4. Staged authenticity
5. Commodification of culture
6. Heritage tourism
7. The tourists
8. Film: Cannibal Tours
9. Othering the nationals: Okinawa
10. "Yokoso Japan": Inbound tourism as a national project
11. Hospitality
12. Onsen tourism
13. Medical tourism
14. Group presentation 1
15. Group presentation 2

Textbooks

Sylvie Guichard-Anguis and Okpyo Moon (eds.) (2011) Japanese Tourism andTravel Culture. Routledge.

Reading/Handbook

Necessary book chapters and articles will be provided.

Means of Assessment

Grading will be as follows: Attendance and participation (30%), Group presentation(30%), and Final report (40%)

Comments

Course Syllabuses
Fall Semester

English Language Assistant and Cultural Informant

Title

Ian NAKAMURA (Professor, Language Education Center)
Coordinator

TEL:

E-mail: iannaka@okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Make appointment by e-mail or after class.
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks

Ian NAKAMURA
Fall semester (16weeks)Timetable

To be decided.

Classroom TBA and office (C403)

Credits

1 credit

This course will offer the assistant-informant a unique and valuable
opportunity to help, observe, and understand how an English class isorganized and taught in a Japanese university. The assistant-informant
will participate in social interactions with the students in order to promote
language learning, international understanding and interculturalcommunication. The assistant-informant will be expected to makeconsistent efforts to help create and maintain a good atmosphere forlearning culture and language and ultimately communication.
1. To give the assistant-informant practical experience in creatinginteresting and useful learning opportunities for students.
2. To allow the assistant-informant to develop intercultural communicativeskills through regular class participation and contact with the students.
3. To deepen the assistant-informant’s interest in learning more about
Japanese culture and language through the experience of collaboratingwith both the learners and teacher.
Note: This course is especially suitable for EPOK students who areplanning to work in international settings in education or business.
Session 1: Self-introduction and getting to know the students.
Sessions 2-8: Assist the teacher by participation in class and talking to as
many students as possible.
Session 9: Help students with rehearsal for midterm presentations.
Session 10: Be a good audience for the students and ask questions.
Sessions 11-12: Assist the teacher by participation in class and talking to as
many students as possible.
Session 13: Help students with rehearsal for final presentations.
Session 14: Be a good audience for the students and ask questions.
Session 15-16: Give final words of encouragement to each student.
No required materials.

Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment
Comments

Regular attendance (including notifying when absent), consistent effort inclass, taking initiative, ongoing discussions with the instructor, and one
written report and interview to reflect on what was learned.
Please contact the instructor in advance to meet and discuss hopes and expectations
and to make sure this experience will be helpful to the student. Also we need to makesure it fits your class schedule.

TitleIntercultural Communication II
John RUCYNSKI (Associate Professor, Language Education Center)

Coordinator

TEL:086-251-7273

E-mail: rucyns-j@okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: By appointment (C414)
Lecturer(s)John RUCYNSKI

Duration of Course Fall semester (15 weeks)Timetable

Monday 5th period (16:15-17:45 )C31

Credits

2 credits

Location

Outline of Course

This course provides an overview of the study of culture and communication in order
to be able to understand and interact with people from other cultures. Students will be
expected to incorporate the basic concepts of intercultural communication theory into
their understanding of daily social life in a foreign country. Sharing experiences andpracticing techniques to enhance intercultural communication will be the focus.

Aims

After completing this course, students should be able to:- explain basic concepts and terms of intercultural communication studies.
- manage more effectively their own intercultural interactions both inside and outsideof the classroom.
- use English appropriately as an international language.
- explain key aspects that define Japanese culture and/or their own culture.

Content

In this course, Japanese and non-Japanese students will interact in an effort to deepen
their understanding of their respective cultures. Class topics will partly be determinedby student interests, but will include a range of topics related to both modern andtraditional Japan. Additionally, non-Japanese students will be asked to share similar
information about their own cultures. Class activities will focus on discussions andpresentations. Materials will be a mix of both teacher and student-selected readings
and multimedia.

Textbook

No textbook. The instructor will provide materials and students will do independent
research.

Reading/Handbook See above.
Means of
Assessment

Comments

Grades will be determined by active participation in class activities, quality ofpresentations, and reflective essays. Students who miss more than three classes will not
be able to receive credit for this course.
1) You do not need to take Intercultural Communication I in order to take this course.
However, if you wish to take both Intercultural Communication I and II you are free todo so, as the instructor and class contents will be different.
2) Non-native English speakers who wish to take this course will need at least a 600
TOEIC score or equivalency. If you have not taken the TOEIC, you may also contact
the instructor directly.

World Conflicts and Peace

Title

Hideki OGAWA (Professor, International Centre)
Coordinator

Tel: 086-251-8516

E-mail: ogawa-h@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Mon & Wed 2nd Period
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location
Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Reading/Textbook

Hideki OGAWA
Fall semester (16 weeks)Timetable

Monday 5th period(16:15-17.45)

C11

Credits

2 credits

An introduction to international conflicts during post cold war period.
This course starts with the Palestine problem as a conduit to various pre- and postcold war conflicts. Main body of the course includes case studies on several regional
conflicts.
The class is designed to serve the needs of students;
1) Desiring a general understanding of war and conflict during post cold war
period,2) Desiring to be more familiarized with current world political affairs.
1. Self-introduction of participants and Aims and Contents of the Lecture
2. Long lasting conflict: Palestine
3. Cold war period: What happened in, e.g., Hungary, Cuba, or Vietnam?
4. End of cold war and the Gulf war
5. Case study: Yugoslavia
6. Somalia
7. Rwanda
8.South Africa
9. Cambodia
10. Angola and Mozambique
11.Kosovo
12.East Timor
13.Afghanistan
14.Sudan
15.General Analysis and conclusion
Suggested in each class.

Means of
Assessment

One presentation, Two essays (less than 3 pages) and a report (less than 2 pages)

Office Hours

Monday 10:25-11:55, Wednesday 10:25-11:55

Global Studies 2

Title
Masumi Fujimoto
Coordinator(Senior Assistant Professor, Language Education Center)

TEL:086-251-

E-mail:mfujimoto@okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: 14:30-16:00 on Thursday
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks
Reading/Handbook

Masumi Fujimoto
Fall semester(16weeks)Timetable

Tuesday4thperiod (14:30-16:00)

C21

Credits

2 credits

As the world is shifting to global, Japan is entering a new era that more ethnic andcultural diversity exist ever than before in Japan. In order to keep the unity of thecountry, new policies must be established for all ethnic and cultural minority groups tobe able to access the resources in society and promote them to participate insociety. As a reference, the United States policies and approaches to ethnic andcultural diverse groups are examined. Then, Japanese approach to multiculturalism or
melting pot model will be discussed.
Through this course, students are given opportunities to think minority groups and tofind a way to coexist with respecting each other.
By the end of the course, students are able to:
１. Understand differences between multiculturalism and melting pot concept
２. Recognize origin of Japanese society
３. Gain a wide range of general knowledge of policies for minority groups in the
U.S.
４. Improve communication skills
５. Deepen cross cultural understanding
Session 1. Introduction
Session 2. Multiculturalism and melting pot in the U.S.
Session 3. Japanese policies and approaches for diversity
Session 4. – Session 14. Group work and presentation
Session 15. Round up
Will be announced in class.
Will be announced in class.

Means of
Assessment

Attendance 10%
Participation 20%
Group work 20%
Presentation 20%
Self-evaluation 30%

Comments

This is an active learning class.

Introduction to Sociolinguistics

Title

Hiromi Yoshida (Senior Assistant Professor, International Center)
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8934

E-mail: hiromi-yoshida@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Mon 5th and Wed 2nd period and by appointment
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks

Hiromi Yoshida
Fall semester (16weeks)Timetable

Tuesday 4th period(14:30-16:00)

C31
2 credits
Credits
Sociolinguistics is a study of relationship between language and society and the way
people use language in different contexts. By focusing on languages in Japan,
students will learn regional and social variation, language policy, and language
ideology. This class is open for both International students and Japanese students.
Through discussions and doing fieldwork together, students will learn from eachother.
To have a general understanding of Sociolinguistics and be able to explainsome of the theories in relation to their own lives.
To gain different perspectives on Sociolinguistic issues and be critical
towards language discrimination.
2. Introduction: What do you know about your language (s)?
2. and 3. Basic Issues and Concepts: various red and blue colors in Japan
4. Regional Variation: How long did it take to master Okayama-ben?
7. Regional Variation: Fieldwork on campus
8. Regional Variation: Presentation
7. Social Variation: “Yabakunai?” Wait, you love that or you hate that?
8.
Social Variation: Onee kotoba- the language emphasizing on
femininity
9. Social communication: Presentation
10. Texts and communication :), (*^^*), ネ申,orz, and LOL
11. Language Ideology: Kawaii “ha-fu face” make-up and wannabes
12. Specialized language: Fieldwork
13. Specialized language: Presentation
14. Preparation for next week
15. Class Debate
16. Wrap up
Provided during class

Reading/Handbook
Means of Assessment
Comments

Preparation and Participation (30%), Paper (30%), Presentation (40%)
This course does not require any linguistic knowledge.

Japanese and Nature

Title

Kazuhisa SHIMADA (Associate Professor, International Center)
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8447

E-mail: kazuhisa.shimada@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Mon & Fri 16:15-17:45 at room E-403 (Appointment is needed.)
Lecturer(s)Kazuhisa SHIMADA

Duration of Course

Fall semester (16 weeks)Timetable

Tuesday5th period (16:15-17:45)

D25

Credits

2 credits

Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks
Reading/Handbook

This course elucidates the Japanese attitude towards nature based on the historicalanalysis. Furthermore, the course gives you some insight into how Japan will copewith the confused situation after the earthquake in 2011. The course will be run by the
discussion style.
To understand the traditional Japanese attitude towards nature. To develop your view
on Japan’s future direction in terms of the sustainable co-existence between people andnature.
1. Guidance and Introduction
2. Japanese and nature – history, culture, climate and geography (I)3. Japanese and nature – history, culture, climate and geography (II)
4. Japanese and natural disasters
5. Mountains and Japanese
6. Group presentation (I)7. Modernisation and environment in Japan (I)8. Modernisation and environment in Japan (II)9. Development and natural conservation in Japan
10. Group presentation (II)11. Globalisation and environmental issues – the role of Japan (I)12. Globalisation and environmental issues – the role of Japan (II)13. Japan’s future direction
14. Group presentation (III)
15. Round-up
No textbook required. Hand out will be provided.
TBA

Means of
Assessment

Class engagement 30%, Presentation 30%, Essay 40%

Comments

The course deals with broad issues related to nature and Japanese including religion,
culture, natural science, politics and economy. Your broad interest is welcomed.

TitleThe Cutting Edge of Agricultural Sciences
Dr. Yuki ICHINOSE (Professor, Faculty of Agriculture)

Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8308

E-mail: yuki@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Every day, Require appointment
Lecturer(s)Y. Ichinose, Y. Kubo, Y. Hirai, T. Acosta Ayala, M. Hirobe, T. Tamura, H. Funahashi,
K. Sakamoto, Y. Yoshida, Y. Nakamura, I. Yokomizo, N. Nishino, M. Izumi, M.
Tahara, T. Kunieda

Duration of Course

Fall semester (15 weeks)Timetable

Wednesday 1st period (8.40-10.10)

Location

Room 1253(Faculty ofAgriculture)

Credits

2 credits

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

The study of molecular biology about plants and animals in Japan has been very
influential in the increase of agricultural production. The course will provide recent
progress in biology of plants and animals and related topics. Students will learn about
Japanese agricultural sciences and foods.
1. To provide students with knowledge of Japanese Agriculture.
2. To let students know the Agricultural Politics in Japan.
3. To let students know the research aims in the Faculty of Agriculture in Japanese
Universities.
Lecture 1: Orientation, Plant Pathology and Genetic Engineering(Prof. ICHINOSE)
Lecture 2: Mechanism of Fruit Ripening and Its Regulation (Prof. KUBO)
Lecture 3: Rice Cultivation in Japan (Assoc. Prof. HIRAI)
Lecture 4: Reproductive Physiology and Endocrinology in Domestic Animals (Assoc.
Prof. ACOSTA AYALA)
Lecture 5: Nitrogen Cycling in Forest Ecosystems (Assoc. Prof. HIROBE)
Lecture 6: Protein ---- It's a tiny, tiny mechanical device (Prof. TAMURA)
Lecture 7: Journey of Spermatozoa (Prof. FUNAHASHI)
Lecture 8: Ecological Conservation of Forests (Prof. SAKAMOTO)
Lecture 9: Strawberry Production (Prof. YOSHIDA)
Lecture 10: Topics in Food Biochemistry (Assoc. Prof. NAKAMURA)
Lecture 11: Characteristics of Livestock Farms in Japan (Prof. YOKOMIZO)
Lecture 12: Animal Production and Biomass Recycling (Assoc. Prof. NISHINO)
Lecture 13: Introduction to Glycobiology and Glycoengineering(Assoc. Prof. IZUMI)
Lecture 14: Agricultural Politics for Technological Development in Japan (Prof.
TAHARA)
Lecture 15: Genetics of Mammals and Its Application (Prof. KUNIEDA)

Textbooks
Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment
Comments

Provided in each class
Attendance 50 %, a short report (ca. 500 words) for each class 50%

Study of Japan

Title

Mariko UZUKA（Professor, International Center）
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8533

E-mail: muzuka@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Tuesday 4th @L-café
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks

Mariko UZUKA (Professor, International Center)
Spring semester (16weeks)Timetable

See below

D22

Credits

1 credit

This course is designed to enable students to learn more about various
aspects of Japanese culture and society through their first handexperience. Students will go to Bezen City to learn modern and traditional
aspect of Okayama. Also, students will have a chance to visit Kotohira
Shrine in Kagawa Prefecture. Furthermore, there will be opportunities tovisit Japanese schools and meet local students.
3. To be familiar with local culture and customs.
4. To interacting with local people.
Session 1 : Orientation (Wednesday from Oct.8th 12:45 at D22)
Session covered in this course are as follows:
Visiting Bizen
Visiting Okayama Minami Senior High School
Appreciating the Tea Ceremony
Visiting Kotohira Shrine*Homestay (Optional**detailed explanation of course content and schedule will be distributedat the beginning of the course.
Handouts will be provided

Reading/Handbook

Means of
Assessment

Comments

Participation and Attitude 70% and Report 30%
NB Due to the nature of the course, lateness and absences are strongly
discouraged. When you cannot come to class, notify the coordinator inadvance if at all possible, by sending an e-mail or leaving a message in her
office.
Participation fees - about ¥ 2,900, but differs depending on course.

Family and Gender in Contemporary Japan

Title

Mayumi ONO（Senior Assistant Professor, International Center）
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8577

E-mail: mayumiono@cc.okayama-u.ac.jprdthOffice Hours: Thursday 3 &4 Period
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Mayumi ONO
Fall semester (16weeks)Timetable

Tuesday 3rd period (12:45-14:15)

C21

Credits

2 credits

Outline of Course

This course explores family and gender in contemporary Japan from ananthropological and sociological perspective. It will examine various aspects ofJapanese family and gender, including: 1) modern family structures and the ways inwhich they shape individuals, 2) the school system and current issues that Japaneseyouth face, 3) the workplace and its gender relations, and 4) sexuality and thetransformation of masculinity and femininity, 5) family and its alternatives and 6) the
elderly and family rituals in a shifting social landscape.

AimsStudents will learn how to critically and comparatively analyze contemporary
Japanese family through the lends of gender. The student will gain a deeper
understanding of and a fresh view of his/her own culture from active andcollaborative learning with students with diverse backgrounds.

Content

1. Introduction
2. Gender and Sexuality
3. Sexual identity
4. The house and modern family system
5. Family planning
6. Gender in the workplace
7. Femininity
8. Masculinity
9. Intimacy
10. Marriage and its alternatives
11. Family, youth, and education
12. Family rituals: Funeral
13. Family and welfare
14. Group presentation
15. Group presentation

Textbooks

Marcus Rebick and Ayumi Takenaka (eds.). (2006) The Changing Japanese Family.
Routledge.

Reading/Handbook

Necessary book chapters and articles will be provided.

Means of Assessment

Grading will be as follows: Attendance and participation (30%), Group presentation(30%), and Final report (40%)

Comments

Materialism in Japan and the West

Title

Michitaka SUZUKI (Professor, Faculty of Letter)
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-7399

E-mail: mich_s@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Thursday 12:30-14:00
Lecturer
Duration of Course
Location

It is better to make contact in advance

Michitaka SUZUKI
Fall semester (16weeks)Timetable

Thursday 4th period(14:30-16:00)

C12

Credits

2 credits

Outline of Course

The ideas toward material culture and life in different cultures and its changes from
Judaism and Christianity through materialism in modernity will be discussed

Aims

To notice that the idea of positive materiality is not a matter of fact even in thecontemporary JapanThe article written by Michitaka SUZUKI and published in 2011: “Hibutsu(Hidden
Buddha)-Living Images in Japan and the Orthodox Icons” will be discussed indetails in a following way.
①materiality in Egypt②materiality in Judea

Content③materiality in Christianity④materiality in Japan and China
The study of material icons entails the study of inspirited idols in comparison withthe dead material icons. Then the idols around us in our daily life will turn to beprecious field for our study. This study begins with the discipline of Art History, but
encompasses other disciplines of Ethnography, Anthropology, Mythology andReligious Studies and in the end may deny the idea of art itself

Textbooks

Hibutsu(Hidden Buddha)-Living Images in Japan and the Orthodox Icons, in The
idea of Representation and Culture in Modern Asia, 2011, pp. 5-24. It will be
prepared for the students in Xerox copy in the lecture.

Reading/Handbook

There are many, for example: Garnett/Rosser, Spectacular Miracles, Reaktion
Books, 2013.

Means of
Assessment
Comments

According to the reports in the end of (and perhaps during) the semester

Introduction to Modern Japanese Culture 1

Title

Masumi Fujimoto (Senior Assistant Professor, Language Education Center)
Coordinator

TEL:086-251-

E-mail:mfujimoto@okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: 10:25-11:55 on Mon. and 16:15-17:45 on Thurs.
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Masumi Fujimoto
Fall semester (16weeks)Timetable

Thursday 4th period (14:30 – 16:00)

C31

Credits

2 credits

This course is a study of a wide variety of modern Japanese pop culture including
anime, manga, local characters (Yuru Chara), local grummet (B-class grummet), andunique café styles. How the society and social norms helped shaping modern
Japanese culture and vice versa are examined.

It used to be Ukiyoe, Samurai, or Kimono as examples of worldly viewed typicalJapanese culture while Karaoke, One Piece, or Maid Cafe has more widely recognizedas Japan’s culture recently. This course aims at gaining the deep knowledge of Japanand its modern culture through better understanding the way in which gender, class,sexuality, age, and social group shape modern culture in Japan.
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.

Study of Japanese animation and its history
Examination of some animation films and related topics
Introduction of Japanese pop culture
Exploration of Okayama local B-class Grummet
Examination on unique social phenomena
Research Paper and Presentation

Textbooks

Will be announced in class.

Reading/Handbook

Will be announced in class.

Means of
Assessment
Comments

Attendance 30%, Participation 30%, Research Paper and Presentation 40%

TitleInternational Relations with special reference to Asia-PacificKazuhisa SHIMADA (Associate Professor, International Center)

Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8447

E-mail: kazuhisa.shimada@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: 16:15-17:45 on Mon. and Fri. at room E-403 (Appointment is needed.)
Lecturer(s)Kazuhisa SHIMADA

Duration of Course

Fall semester (16 weeks)Timetable

Thursday 5th period (16.15-17.45)

B32

Credits

2 credits

Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks

Most of Asian countries became independent after WWII. Although they arestill new countries, they are now at the centre of economic growth in theworld. This course elucidates the international relations of Asian countries
through the historical view. It also shows you the perspective ofinternational relations in Asia-Pacific in the near future. This course is run
by the discussion style.
To acquire the analytic view on growing Asian countries in the world, andthe insight of the future of Asia-Pacific.
1. Introduction
2. Outline of International Relations theory
3. The country profile of Asia-Pacific (I)
4. The country profile of Asia-Pacific (II)
5. The country profile of Asia-Pacific (III)
6. Group presentation (I)7. International cooperation in Asia-Pacific (I)8. International cooperation in Asia-Pacific (II)
9. Group presentation (II)
10. International relations in Asia-Pacific (Cold War period I)
11. International relations in Asia-Pacific (Cold War Period II)
12. International relations in Asia-Pacific (Post-Cold War Period I)
13. International relations in Asia-Pacific (Post-Cold War Period II)
14. Group presentation (III)
15. Round-up

Kazuhisa Shimada, "Working together" for Peace and Prosperity ofSoutheast Asia, 1945-1968: The Birth of the ASEAN Way, Daigaku Kyoiku
Syuppan, 2013 (You can buy it at Seikyo bookshop.)Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment
Comments

Class engagement 30%, Presentation 30%, Essay 40%

TitleExpanding cross-cultural language and communicative skills II
Ian NAKAMURA (Professor, Language Education Center)

Coordinator

TEL:

E-mail: iannaka@okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Make appointment by e-mail or after class.
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks

Ian NAKAMURA
Fall semester (16weeks)Timetable

Friday2nd period (10:25-11:55)

D22

Credits

2 credits

This course is designed so EPOK students will have a chance to interact
and study with Japanese students and students from other countries. The
focus will be on learning how to effectively speak, listen, and communicate
with people from other countries, languages, and cultures. Besides using
students' own experiences, weekly scenes from a film which will beanalyzed for how language is used to co-accomplish social interactions.
Students by the end of the course should be able to:-engage others in effective communication through orderly turn taking.
-adjust and adapt their ways of using language in order to accommodate.
-contribute to our evolving understanding of talk-in-interaction.
Tentative outline (subject to adjustments and changes)
Session 1: Orientation
Session 2: What is language and communication?
Session 3: Comparison of types of English
Sessions 4-5: Comparison with other languages
Sessions 6-7: Description of interactional problems in local contexts
Sessions 7-8: Possible solutions in local contexts and beyond
Sessions 9-13: Small group discussions
Session 14-15: Reflections on using language for communication
Contents/schedule of activities/topics will be adjusted to fit interests andneeds of the students, individually and as a group.
No required materials.

Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment

Comments

Grades will be decided by attitude, participation, and contribution to thiscommunity of learners. In addition, students will write a research reportunder the supervision of the instructor on a topic of interest.
You do not need to take ‘Expanding Cross-Cultural Language and Communicative
Skills I’ before taking this course. The instructor and class contents will be different.
(2) Japanese students need at least a 600 TOEIC score. International students who are
non-native English speakers can show equivalent English proficiency by directly
contacting the instructor who will check.

Japanese Studies（日本学）

Title
Kazuhisa SHIMADA
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8447

E-mail: kazuhisa.shimada@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Mon & Fri 16:15-17:45 at room E-403 (Appointment is needed.)
Lecturer(s)Duration of
CourseLocation

Outline of Course

Aims

Content

Textbooks

Hideki OGAWA, Mayumi ONO, Mariko UDUKA, Kazuhisa SHIMADA and Hiromi
YOSHIDA
Fall semester (16 weeks)Timetable Friday
12:45-14:15
B31
2 credits
Credits
This course elucidates Japan based on various angles, such as history, politics, naturalenvironment, linguistics and popular culture. The course is taught in easy Japanese, and thestduents might be requested to write or speak in easy Japanese.

To learn Japan, and to learn academic Japanese.
1. Guidance & Introduction
2. Japanese modern history and politics (I)
3. Japanese modern history and politics (II)
4. Japanese youth culture (I)
5. Japanese youth culture (II)6. Japanese youth culture (III)
7. Japanese Cuisine & Culture (I)
8. Japanese Cuisine & Culture (II)9. Natural environment in Japan (I)10. Natural environment in Japan (II)11. Natural environment in Japan (III)12. Japan and Transnationalism (I)
13. Japan and Transnationalism (II)14. Japan and Transnationalism (III)
15. Round-up

No textbook required. Hand out will be provided.

Reading/Handbook TBA
Class participation (attendance, engagement, oral presentation etc.) 50%, Presentation (oralMeans ofpresentation, essay, quiz etc.) 50%
Assessment
If you want to take the courses taught in Japanese, but do not have much confidence. Just
Comments
join us.

Exploring Japanese Culture via Way of Tea, Chado II

Title

Junko OBAYASHI
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8935

E-mail: j_obayashi@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp

Office Hours: Tue 14:30-16:30
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Junko OBAYASHI
Fall semester (16weeks)Timetable

Friday 3rd period(12:45-14:15)

C26

Credits

2 credits

Outline of Course

Chado, Way of Tea, is known widely in the international community today as one of
the most "authentic" Japanese tradition, which has developed over more than four
hundred years. The simple act of sharing a bowl of tea with refined rules and manners
in exact procedures tends to stand out at the first look of the culture. This course
attempts to provide a deeper view of the culture of Chado by examining its history,
thoughts and art in the scope that would enrich our understanding of cultural values
and legacies in Japan.

Aims

The course aims to provide an opportunity to explore the meanings, philosophy, value,and beauty in the cultural practice of Chado. Students are expected to enhance
understanding of the deep and vital connection between Chado and Japanese aesthetics
both in its internal and external elements.
The detail syllabus should be announced in the first class.

Content

Textbooks

The course consists of lectures and discussions on the history, spiritual significance,art (implements), and manners/procedures of Chado. The demonstrations andinteractive experiences in Cha-shitsu (Tea room) would be included
None

Reading/Handbook

None
Handouts should be provided, if necessary.

Means of
Assessment

Knowledge of Japanese history would help.

Comments

This course will include sessions of demonstration/practice. In order to ensure thequality of the teaching/learning, the number of the enrolment may be limited to 5 (forforeign applicants) to be selected on a random basis. It requires 300-500yen/practice toparticipate in a practice session. (3 practice classes are scheduled.)Globalizing Japan:
Society and Culture from Multicultural Perspective

Title

Mayumi ONO（Senior Assistant Professor, International Center）
Coordinator

TEL: 086-251-8577

E-mail: mayumiono@cc.okayama-u.ac.jprdthOffice Hours: Thursday 3 & 4 period
Lecturer(s)Duration of Course
Location

Mayumi ONO
Fall semester (16weeks)Timetable

Thursday 3rd period(12:45-14:15)

A33

Credits

2 credits

Outline of Course

This course explores globalizing Japanese society and culture focusing on themulticultural aspects of Japanese society, from an anthropological perspective. The
course critically looks at how Japanese society experiences transformations under the
inflow of foreigners and of their culture, within the broader global context. Students
will reexamine the cultural politics of tradition and the belief in a “homogenous”
society in an effort to understand Japan as a dynamic and heterogeneous entity.

Aims

Student will learn key themes and issues surrounding multicultural Japanese society.
Furthermore, this course aims to lead to the de-construction of cultural assumptions
and generalizations and to the rediscovery of contemporary Japanese society andculture as a diverse entity. The student will gain a deeper understanding of and a freshview of his/her own culture from active and collaborative learning with students withvarious backgrounds.

Content

1. Introduction
2. Nationality and citizenship 1
3. Nationality and citizenship 2
4. Ethnic town
5. Nikkei Brazilian return migrants
6. Invisible migrants
7. Film: Swallowtail
8. Visa-overstay
9. Stateless people
10. International marriage in rural Japan
11. Multiculturalism, museums, and tourism
12. Rethinking the national sports: Sumo and its foreign wrestlers
13. Aging in Japan and foreign care workers
14. Group presentation 1
15. Group presentation 2

Textbooks

Nelson Graburn, John Ertl, and R. Kenji Tierney (eds.). (2008) Multiculturalism in the
New Japan: Crossing the Boundaries Within. Berghahn Books.

Reading/Handbook
Means of
Assessment
Comments

Necessary book chapters and articles will be provided.
Grading will be as follows: Attendance and participation (30%), Group presentation(30%), and Final report (40%)