Year at Otaru University of Commerce

YOUC PROGRAMSYLLABUS

September 2024 - August 2025

YOUC Program

YOUC Program Overview
September 2024 – August 2025
The YOUC Program is designed for international students who wish to study in Japan using English. This program
offers an opportunity to study economics, marketing and a range of business topics with a special emphasis on Japanand Asia-Pacific and Japanese language as well as other liberal arts subjects. Most classes in the YOUC Program aresmall, with no more than 30 students at most, providing opportunities for classroom interaction.

Eligibility
Students with the following qualifications are eligible to apply for the YOUC program.
－A student who is currently enrolled in a university or an equivalent educational institution－A student who intends to return to the home country after finishing the YOUC program and complete the course
at the home institution
NOTE:
An applicant loses his/her eligibility to enroll in or attend the YOUC program when he/she loses a student status at
the home institution.

Academic period

In principle, the YOUC Program is a one-year program from September to August. Except for subjects held in breaks,
ordinary courses are held in the Fall, Winter, Spring or Summer quarter.
Official academic semester/Quarter:(Fall Semester)
Fall Quarter: September – November
Winter Quarter: November – February(Spring Semester)Spring Quarter: April-June
Summer Quarter: June - AugustFields of study

The YOUC Program is designed for economics and business students in their junior year when the program commences.
The program primarily focuses on economics and business related subjects.

Registration requirements

In order to complete the YOUC program, students must register and earn 30 credits in total including 10 credits fromcore subjects in a year. A certificate of completion will be issued to students who fulfill the above requirement. Japanese
language classes can be counted as core subjects up to four credits.
Students must register classes with at least 10 hours classroom commitment per week regarding residential status.

Prerequisites

Sufficient proficiency in English, elementary knowledge of economics, business, first year calculus, and university level
writing skills are required to enroll in the YOUC Program. Some YOUC classes require the use of the internet and theWorld Wide Web. Students in the YOUC Program are expected to have well-developed computer skills and be able touse computers to write papers, search for research material, prepare presentations, etc.
1

Language Requirements

All lectures are conducted in English and require English language proficiency (TOEFL score PBT 550 or iBT 80 isrecommended) and no prior knowledge of Japanese is required. Even though the YOUC Program is not a program for
language training, it provides a good opportunity to acquire Japanese proficiency. The students who already have goodJapanese skills can attend regular classes offered in Japanese.

Credit transfer

Credits at the YOUC Program can be transferred via the UCTS (University Credit Transfer Scheme) as agreed by UMAP
(University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific). The UCTS points of credits obtained at Otaru University of Commerce
are as follows:
Courses except language courses
Otaru University of Commerce

Language Courses

UCTS

UCTS

Otaru University of Commerce

1 credit

1 UCTS points

2 credits

4 UCTS points

2 credits

2 UCTS points

3 credits

6 UCTS points

3 credits

3 UCTS points

4 credits

8 UCTS points

4 credits

4 UCTS points

Arrival and Mandatory Orientation
New YOUC students must arrive in Otaru no later than September 19,
2024. The mandatory orientation for students will be held on
September 24, 2024. Some necessary procedures upon arrival will be
conducted during the above period.

TuitionThe following table lists educational institutions that have exchange agreement with Otaru University of Commerce.
Students in good academic standing nominated from these institutions can apply for the YOUC program with tuition
fee waiver.
RegionUniversities and Colleges
Chungnam National University (Korea)
Dongbei University of Finance and Economics (China)

Asia

Lanzhou University (China)
Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City International University(Vietnam)University of Malaya (Malaysia)
Hong Kong Baptist University (Hong Kong)
National Taipei University of Business (Taiwan)
Far Eastern Federal University (Russia)
Vienna University of Economics and Business (Austria)
University of Bayreuth (Germany)
Berlin School of Economics and Law (Germany)

EuropeAix-Marseille University (France)
University of Sheffield (United Kingdom)
University of Burgos (Spain)
Bifröst University (Iceland)
Oulu University of Applied Science (Finland)
ICHEC Brussels Management School (Belgium)2

Oglethorpe University (United States)
North America

University of South Dakota (United States)
Western Michigan University (United States)
Lesley University (United States)

Oceania

University of Otago (New Zealand)
University of Wollongong (Australia)

Application procedure
To apply for the YOUC Program, students must fill out the YOUC Program application form. An applicant must also
send certified copies (either in English or Japanese) of the transcript issued by his/her home institution. For othermaterials, please refer to the check-list on the application form. All application material should be sent to theInternational Office of Otaru University of Commerce through the study abroad office of the applicant’s home institution
by e-mail (no need for postal submission). All application materials have to be received by the International Office ofOtaru University of Commerce no later than April 10, 2024 for 2024 September intake / October 10, 2024 for 2025
March intake. For further information, please contact the study abroad office at your home institution or theInternational Office of Otaru University of Commerce directly.
Center for Glocal Strategy, Glocal Education Division,
Otaru University of Commerce (International Office)Address: 3-5-21, Midori, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-8501, Japan
Tel: +81-134-27-5262/5263

Fax: +81-134-27-5264

E-mail: inljimu@office.otaru-uc.ac.jp

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Subject List
Offered courses are subject to change. Will update the list when applicable.
Japanese language subjects are counted as optional subject credits toward completion.
Up to four credits of Japanese language courses can be counted in as core subject credits.
A semester is 15 weeks and a quarter is of 7.5 weeks period.

Fall Semester“Fall Quarter” and “Winter Quarter”
Fall Quarter (September - November)Core subjects

Credits

Course Code

Page

Business Economics I

24101120

9Introduction to Empirical Studies

24101140

10International Development Cooperation

24101200

11

Japanese Companies in Global Business2

4101220

12Winter Quarter (November - February)Core subjects

Credits

Course Code

Page

Business Economics II

24101130

14

Glocal Field Work II

2

4101170

15

Glocal Internship I

1 or 2-

6

Glocal Internship II

1 or 2-

6

Credits

Course Code

Page

1

1101070

16

Optional subjects
Exercise and Sports IIc (Skiing: Intensive course)

Fall Semester (September - February)Core subjects

Credits

Course Code

Page

Introduction to Glocal Management2410111017

Glocal Seminar I

24101250

Glocal Seminar III

2(See P6)

2(See P6)

2(See P6)

6, 25
6, 2729
6, 2729
6

Research Paper II (Co-registered with Glocal Seminar IV)

2(See P6)

6

Japanese language subjects

Credits

Course Code

Page

Japanese Ⅰ

34300100

31

Japanese II (Fall Semester)

3430012032

Glocal Seminar IV (Only for the students who havecompleted “Glocal Seminar III”)
Research Paper I (Co-registered with Glocal Seminar III)

Japanese Affairs I (*sufficient Japanese skill required)21130140
Note: “Japanese Affairs I” will be conducted basically in Japanese for the regular international students. If you areinterested in it, please check the guidance by the instructor before registration.
4

Spring Semester“Spring Quarter” and “Summer Quarter”*Course Codes will be announced before the semester begins

Spring Quarter (April - June)
Core subjects

Credits

Page

Business Economics II

2

20

Japanese Economy

2

20

Credits

Page

Introduction to Japanese Management

2

21

Glocal Field Work I

2

22

Glocal Internship I

1 or 2

6

Glocal Internship II

1 or 2

6

Summer Quarter (June - August)Core subjects

Spring Semester (April - August)Core subjects

Credits

Page

Glocal Seminar II

2

6, 26

Glocal Seminar III
Glocal Seminar IV (Only for the students who havecompleted “Glocal Seminar III”)
Research Paper I (Co-registered with Glocal Seminar III)2

6, 27-29

2

6, 27-29

2

6

Research Paper II (Co-registered with Glocal Seminar IV)

2

6

Japanese language subjects*

Credits

Page

Japanese ⅠI

3

34

Japanese III

3

34*NOTE: There is no Japanese language subjects of beginner level in the Spring Semester (March Intake). If you haveno previous knowledge of Japanese language and hope to learn it, you should apply for the Fall Semester (September
Intake).

5Glocal Seminar I / II/ III / IV / Research Paper
CourseDescription

Glocal Seminar I

Glocal Seminar II

Glocal Seminar III
Glocal Seminar IV

Research Paper I/II

The course is designed to provide students with intensive instruction
on learning styles and strategies that result in academic success inEnglish. This course is offered to YOUC Students and Japanese
freshmen who would like to study abroad in the future and develop
their English Language skills thorough the course. YOUC Students or
Japanese students at the sophomore level or above are expected tofacilitate the class activities such as discussions.
Glocal Seminar III/IV is a seminar style course for YOUC students.
You can choose one seminar for one semester from the below list andlearn a specific field.
Students are expected to register for “Glocal Seminar III” in their firstsemester and “Glocal Seminar IV” in their second semester.
Research Paper I/II is an optional course for students who would liketo learn basic knowledge for writing an effective research paper on
the topic covered in the Glocal Seminar III/IV each. Thus, Research
Paper I/II students must be registered with Glocal Seminar III/IV
each.

Glocal Seminar III & IV
Core subjects

Credits

The economics-oriented series (GSEcon)

2

The commerce-oriented series (GSComm)

2

Seminar in Linguistics

2

Course Code (Fall)(as GSIII) 4101280(as GSIV) 4101320(as GSIII) 4101300(as GSIV) 4101340(as GSIII) 4101360(as GSIV) 4101380

Page
27

29

For more information, please refer to each syllabus.
Research Paper I & II
Core subjects
Credits
The economics-oriented series supervised2
by Prof. Matsumoto
The commerce-oriented series supervised2
by Assoc. Prof. Wang
The commerce-oriented series supervised by
2
Assoc. Prof. Kobayashi

Course Code (Fall)(as RPI) 4200100(as RPII) 4200160(as RPI) 4200130(as RPII) 4200190(as RPI) 4200150(as RPII) 4200210

Glocal Internship I / II
To deepen student understanding of the working condition in local areas (Otaru, Shiribeshi, Hokkaido) and various
problems of regional society in Japan, we offer some internship opportunities for exchange students. The choices ofinternship vary each year. Please refer to the below list of past internships.
If you are interested in the Glocal Internship, please attend the orientation session. The date will be announced to you
later. (Registration is not required for this course.)-English Camp at Yubari-Assistance Teaching English to Children at an After School Day Care Center in Otaru-Metalworking company
6

Syllabus

7

Fall Semester Subjects

8Instructor: Ikeda Shinsuke

Business Economics I

Credits: 2 (Fall Quarter)Core Subject
Course Code: 4101120
1. Course objectives and method
This is the first half of the Business Economics series in the “glocal” education program at Otaru University ofCommerce (OUC). The class accommodates both YOUC international students and OUC regular students who wish
to learn Business Economics in English.
The main objective of this course is to provide you with some opportunities to learn the microeconomics of businessenterprises and their pricing strategies based on the theory of monopoly. I will follow my slides in class (to be
circulated for free), but I will encourage your active participation by asking various questions and letting you dogroup work.
I do not assume your previous knowledge about elementary microeconomic courses (e.g., Introduction to Economics
I (経済学入門 1) in the spring semester for freshmen). However, you are in a relatively advantageous position if you
have such exposure previously or simultaneously.
2. Course Goals
I want you to become more familiar with economists’ ways of thinking about business issues from the viewpoint of
optimality/incentive and efficiency for individuals and firms. Given assumptions on the competitive environment andinformation among them, you are supposed to apply your acquired knowledge to some business and managerial cases.
This aspect distinguishes my class from most other courses in the Econ department. In particular, I will ask you towrite a case report about an actual business (restaurant, souvenir shop, café, rotating sushi bar, etc.) of your strong
interest based on the knowledge you will learn in the class.
3. Course contents
1. Theory-1: The Market Demand Curve.
2. Theory-2: The Production Cost.
3. Theory-3: Economies of Scale.
4. Case-1: Price vs. Average Cost in a Funeral Industry.
5. Theory-4: Monopoly.
6. Theory-5: Margin.
7. Case-2: Revenue or Profit at a Ramen Noodle Shop in Otaru.
8. Theory-6: Elasticity.
9. Case-3: Uber’s Surging Prices.
10. Theory-7: Price Discriminations and Market Segmentations.
11. Theory-8: Economies of Scope and Sophisticated Mass Marketing.
12. Case-4: Mini vs. Takeoka.
13. Theory-9: Sustainability of Monopoly and The Innovator’s Dilemma.
14. Case-5: Toyota vs. Tesla.
I will cover Theory-9 and Case-5 only if we have enough time.
The class will be in-person: it will turn to online sessions only if any unexpected social turmoil emerges (e.g., a global
pandemic, natural disaster, war, etc.) I have an email account for your quick communications with me:
ikedainotaru3@gmail.com
You should submit your homework assignments, questions, etc., to this account.
This course is quarterly with two sessions each week: one on Monday 3rd (12:50-14:20) and another on Friday 4th(14:30-16:00), and the course spans from September 27th (Fri) to November 15th (Fri), with 5 Monday sessions and8 Friday sessions because of two holidays on Mondays this year. I may have a makeup Zoom session and another inperson session (TBD). I will assign you a take-home midterm exam sometime in the beginning of October (due inthe middle of October), and the final case report in the middle of November (due in the beginning of December).
4. Preparation and review class
No particular ones are planned.
5. Teaching materials
9

My slides (circulated for free) will be uploaded on Manaba regularly.
I can adjust them appropriately if you are medically challenged.
My slides are based on various references. I will let you know in a printed version of this syllabus (to be circulated
just before the beginning of the course through Manaba).
6. Grading[1] Attendance (10%)[2] Homework Assignments (20%)[3] Midterm Exam (30%)[4] Final Case Report (40%)
6. Grading Criteria
All previous students who attended as many classes as possible and submitted as many assignments as possible could
pass this course. However, you must work harder to get an “A” grade.
Here are some tips about each of the grading criteria.
[1]: I will circulate the attendance sheet at the beginning of each session.
[2]: You will have homework of a “T/F” style after each “Theory” session.
[3]: The midterm exam will be analytical and of a “take-home” style. TBD later.
[4]: The final report will be about an actual business of your vital interest. I will allow you to work on this project in agroup (of two or three students).
7. Remarks
BE-2 will be offered in this winter quarter December 2024-January 2025 (the second half of this semester) for
students in Sophomore or higher years and not for most of you in the freshman years. Please wait for the next Springquarter April to June 2025 (the first half of the next semester). I will assume some basic knowledge (such as monopoly
pricing, elasticity, etc.) in BE-1 for your smooth learning in BE-2. I will review them in BE-2, but only briefly andselectively. I strongly recommend that you take BE-1 for credits to prepare for BE-2.
If you wish to cancel your registration for this course, please do so from October 16th to 21st. I cannot manage yourpetition for canceling this course after this period. Please remember that it is different from the schedule of cancelingmost other semester-wide courses (November 20th to 26th).
8. Method of class
Face-To-Face class
9. Additional information
Includes learning content on region (Hokkaido)
10. Detailed information on additional information
Some cases are regarding business in Otaru.

Introduction to Empirical Studies
Core Subject

Instructor: Onozuka Yuki
Credits: 2 (Fall Quarter)

Course Code: 4101140

1. Course objective and method
In this course, students will gain experience processing data for analysis using statistical software "R", Git, and GitHub.
First half of the course is intended to help students learn how to use R and how to control versions with Git and GitHub.
In the second half of the course, students will be assigned to a group of 2 or 3 to work as a team. Research paper(s) inEconomics will be assigned to each group. Then, each group will replicate the paper (tables, figures, etc. in the paper)as much as possible.
2. Course Goals
Students will
1) learn how to use statistical software "R"2) learn version control with Git3) gain experience collaborating with multiple people using GitHub.
3. Course Contents10

1: Introduction
2: Installation of R
3: Basics of Git & GitHub
4-6: Basics of R
7-14: Research paper replication
4.Preparation and review classStudents will be given some amount of time to work on their assignment and replication project during class, but they
will probably need to work outside of class to finish them.
5. Teaching materials
TBA
6. GradingGroup output (50%)- Degree of replication of a research paper
Individual output (50%)- Assignment (10%)- Contribution in group (30%)- Contribution in class (10%)
7. Grading Criteria
100-90 A
89-80 B
79-70 C
69-60 D
0-59 F
7. Remarks
Bring your own laptop.
Having basic knowledge of programming would be helpful for a better understanding of this course.
This course will be provided in English, but Japanese may be used supplementarily depending on the situation.
The schedule is subject to change.
8. Method of class
Face-To-Face classInternational Development Cooperation
Core Subject

Course Code: 4101200

Instructor: Matsumoto Tomoya
Credits: 2 (Fall Quarter)

1. Course objective and method
In this lecture, we will learn the economies of less-developed countries and their recent development in relation tointernational development assistance. The lecture covers poverty, education, public health, agriculture, andinfrastructure in less developed countries, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Japan International Cooperation
Agency (JICA), impact evaluation of aid programs, and the effectiveness of development aids. We will discuss related
topics based on actual data. To do so, we often use methods of statistics to analyze socio-economic data in the course.
2. Course Goals
The students are expected to learn the current situation of less-developed countries, activities of aid agencies, theirobjectives, and consequences through the course. In particular, this lecture aims to enhance students' knowledge on thefollowing topics:
How do people live in less developed countries?
What are the challenges in their lives?
Who are the major players in development assistance?
What issues do they try to address?
What are their goals?
Do they succeed or fail?
What can we do for people in less-developed countries?
113. Course Contents
Every week (two sessions), we will study a single topic. In the first session, the instructor will lecture on the topic anddiscuss it in the second session. Topics covered in the course are given as follows:
Week 0: Introduction (no discussion session)
Week 1: Lives in less-developed countries
Week 2: Aid agencies and their activities (including SDGs)
Week 3: Universal Primary Education
Week 4: Public health programs
Week 5: Improvement of infrastructure and its impact on poverty
Week 6: Agricultural development
Week 7: Merits and demerits of aid
4.Preparation and review class
Reading assignments are given every week to prepare for the discussion session.
5. Teaching materials
Materials are given by the instructor.
6. Grading
Class participation (30%)
Presentation (30%)
Final report (40%)
7. Grading Criteria
A(秀): 100-90
B(優): 89-80
C(良): 79-70
D(可): 69-60
F(不可): 59-1
F(不可): 0
7. Courses conducted by the ones with practical experiences
Yes
8. Outline of their practical experiences
I was a visiting scientist at International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, for three years.
9. Method of class
Face-To-Face class
10. Additional information
Includes learning content on region (Hokkaido)

Japanese Companies in Global BusinessCore Subject

Course Code: 4101220

Instructor: Kobayashi Koji
Credits: 2 (Fall Quarter)

1. Course objective and method
The aim of this course is to explore and analyze various aspects of international business and management of Japanesemultinational companies. The key concepts covered in this course include strategic management, strategic alliance,
modes of market entry and analysis of competitive environment, advantage and potential. While the content revolves
around issues of corporate strategy, most of the discussions that take place during the course relate to selected cases ofJapanese multinational companies operating overseas and the challenges emanating from their distinctive political,
social and cultural orientations. As such, international knowledge and experience of the students are of great relevanceand strength in the problem-solving exercise.
To improve and maintain the level of their participation in class, this course requires students to engage in case studies
12and make a group presentation on a selected case in class within the second half of the course. Preparatory materials
will be uploaded to the Manaba system or other online platforms where appropriate.
A filed trip may be arranged depending on the availability and circumstances, and accordingly the course schedule
may have to be changed to accommodate the field trip.
2. Course Goals
By completing this course, students will be able to:•Explain the basic concepts of global and international strategies and how they apply to Japanese multinational
companies•Assess and discuss pros and cons of various theoretical approaches to analyze international business and managementof Japanese multinational companies•Discuss and cooperate with other classmates to conduct a groupwork and present their findings in class in an informed
and effective manner•Conduct a case study on a Japanese multinational company, apply an analytical framework and offer insight into how
the current strategies or practices may be improved for better performances
3. Course contents
Class 1: Course introduction
Class 2-7: International business environment, strategic management, strategic alliance, modes of market entry andanalysis of competitive environment, advantage and potential
Class 8: Case studies and report instruction
Class 9-14: Cases of Japanese multinational companies (with student group presentations)Class 15: Course summary
Course plan and schedule are subject to change depending on study progress and/or availability of field trip and guest
speakers.
4. Preparation and review classPreparation: Students are required to prepare and read assigned materials prior to each class. Students are also expected
to have checked Manaba frequently and kept themselves updated on any news, messages and changes.
Review: Students are expected to review the materials covered in class and make the most out of them when participating
in class and completing course tasks including the report.
5. Teaching materials
Teaching materials will be uploaded to the Manaba system or other online platforms where appropriate.
Recommended readings include the following:
Motohashi, K. (2015). Global Business Strategy: Multinational Corporations Venturing into Emerging Markets. Tokyo:
Springer. Available at: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007%2F978-4-431-55468-4#about
6. Grading
Grading is based on outcomes of the following course tasks:•Individual class participation (including attendance) - 25%•Quiz on academic writing - 5%
•Group presentation - 15%•Individual questions to the presenters – 5%
•Report plan - 10%•Report - 40%
7. Grading Criteria
A (Excellent): 100 - 90
B (Very good): 89 - 80
C (Good): 79 - 70
D (Satisfactory): 69 - 60
F (Unsatisfactory): 59 – 0
8. Remarks
In 2024, the course will be mainly organized and delivered by Dr. Koji Kobayashi (Glocal Education Unit, Centre for
Glocal Strategy). Please contact him directly if you have any questions about the course.
13

As this is a course available to our international exchange students, class communication and discussion will be
conducted mainly in English but may be supplemented in Japanese when it is deemed necessary and appropriate.
However, please note that the class readings, instructions and materials will be provided mainly in English and that thecourse tasks will need to be completed in English unless there is any agreement made to allow for exceptions.
本科目は海外からの短期交換留学生にも開かれた科目であるため、授業での会話および議論は主に英語で行いますが、
必要かつ適切と判断される場合には日本語で補足することがあります。ただし、リーディング、
インストラクションや資料は主に英語で提供され、例外を認める合意がない限り、科目の課題は英語で提出する必要がありますのでご留意ください。
9. Method of class
Face-To-Face class

Instructor: Ikeda Shinsuke
Credits: 2 (Winter Quarter)

Business Economics IICore Subject
Course Code: 4101130
1. Course objectives and method
This is the second half of the Business Economics series in the “glocal” education program at Otaru University ofCommerce (OUC). The class accommodates both YOUC international students and OUC regular students who wish
to learn Business Economics in English.
The main objective of this course is to provide you with some opportunities to learn the microeconomics of businessenterprises and their competitive and behavioral strategies based on the oligopoly theory. I will follow my slides inclass (to be circulated for free), but I will encourage your active participation by asking various questions and letting
you do group work in class.
You should know the basics of Business Economics I (BE1), such as monopoly pricing, price elasticity of demand,
marginal revenue, marginal cost, etc., at the beginning of this class. I will briefly and selectively review them in thefirst couple of classes. If you have previously been exposed to (and understood) such knowledge, you are at a goodadvantage over your classmates without such knowledge.
2. Course Goals
I want you to become more familiar with economists’ ways of thinking about business issues from the viewpoint of
optimality/incentive and efficiency for individuals and firms. Given assumptions on the competitive environment andinformation among them, you are supposed to apply your acquired knowledge to some business and managerial cases.
This aspect distinguishes my class from most other courses in the Econ department. In particular, I will ask you towrite a case report about an actual business (restaurant, souvenir shop, café, rotating sushi bar, etc.) of your strong
interest.
3. Course contents
1. Theory-1: Review of Monopoly Pricing Rule.
2. Theory-2: Cournot competition.
3. Case-1: Coke vs. Pepsi.
4. Theory-2: Bertrand Competition as a “Price War”.
5. Theory-3: Product Differentiations.
6. Case-2: Differentiated wheelchair industry
7. Theory-4: Exploiting naïve consumers
8. Case-3: Naïve consumers and behavioral marketing strategies
9. Theory-5: Price discriminations in a price war
The rest: some behavioral economic issues.
Regular classes will be “in-person”: they will turn to online sessions only if any unexpected social turmoil emerges(e.g., a global pandemic, natural disaster, war, etc.) I have an email account for your quick communications with me:
ikedainotaru3@gmail.com
You should submit your homework assignments, questions, etc., to this account.
This course is quarterly with two sessions each week: one on Monday 4th (14:30-16:00) and another on Thursday 1st(8:50-10:20 ☹), and the course spans from November 18th (Mon) to January 13th (Thu), with 6 Monday sessions
and 7 Thursday sessions because January 13th (Mon) will be a national holiday. I may have a makeup Zoom session
14

and another in-person session (TBD). I will assign you a take-home midterm exam sometime in the beginning ofDecember (due in the beginning of January), and the final case report in the middle of January (due in the beginningof February).
4. Preparation and review class
No particular ones are planned.
5. Teaching materials
I can adjust them appropriately if you are medically challenged.
My slides are based on various references. I will let you know them in a printed version of the syllabus, to be
circulated through Manaba just before the beginning of the course.
6. Grading[1] Attendance (10%)[2] Homework Assignments (20%)[3] Midterm Exam (30%)[4] Final Case Report (40%)
6. Grading Criteria
All previous students who attended as many classes as possible and submitted as many assignments as possible could
pass this course. However, you must work harder to get an “A” grade.
Here are some tips about each of the grading criteria.
[1]: I will circulate the attendance sheet at the beginning of each session.
[2]: You will have homework of a “T/F” style after each “Theory” session.
[3]: The midterm exam will be analytical and of a “take-home” style. TBD later.
[4]: The final report will be about an actual business of your vital interest. I will allow you to work on this project in agroup (of two or three students).
7. Remarks
It is unusual for me to offer BE-2 in the winter quarter. This is due to my sabbatical leave from October 2023 to
September 2024, so those who took my BE-1 in 2023 had no chance to take BE-2 in the first semester of 2024. I will
have another BE-2 in the next semester as a regular schedule.
If you wish to cancel your registration for this course, please do so from December 18th to 24th. I cannot manage
your petition for canceling this course after this period. Please remember that it is different from the schedule ofcanceling most other semester-wide courses (November 20th to 26th).
8. Method of class
Face-To-Face class

Instructor: Matsumoto Tomoya

Glocal Field Work II

Credits: 2 (Winter Quarter)Core Subject
Course Code: 4101170
1. Course objective and method
Fieldwork is the process of observing research objects (more specifically, people in social science) and collecting
observational data in the actual field.
The objective of this course is to learn how to plan and implement fieldwork. In this course we visit some sites in
Hokkaido for fieldwork, including ski areas, local factories, workshops, companies, tourism facilities, and markets.
2. Course Goals
This course aims to understand how to implement fieldwork, collect helpful information from research targets,summarize the collected information, and present the research outcomes.
3. Course Contents
This course covers the following contents:
1. Introduction
2. Finding research questions15

3. Designing a research plan
4. Implementing fieldwork in Hokkaido
5. Reporting fieldwork outcomes
6. Presenting findings
4. Preparation and review class
Prior to each visit of the fieldwork site, students must collect as much information as possible and prepare researchquestions in advance.
5. Teaching materials
The material will be given by the instructor.
6. Grading
Class preparation and participation (20%)
Fieldwork (50%)
Presentation (30%)
7. Grading Criteria
This class follows the OUC guideline for grading, which is given by
A(秀): 100-90
B(優): 89-80
C(良): 79-70
D(可): 69-60
F(不可): 59-1
F(不可): 0
8. Remarks
The Glocal Fieldwork II will be given in the winter quarter (December and January). Besides Monday afternoon, we
may also adjust fieldwork schedule to other weekdays or even weekends.
9. Method of class
Face-To-Face class
10. Additional information
Includes learning content on region (Hokkaido)

Exercise and Sports IIc(Skiing: Intensive course)
Optional Subject

Instructor: Nakagawa Yoshinao, et al
Credits: 1 (3 days)

Course Code:1101070

Ski Area: Asari-gawa onsen. Meet in front of Center House
Date: December 25 (Wed), 26 (Thu) AND 27 (Fri), 2024
Hours: 8:50-16:00 hrs
Lift Ticket: 3,000 yen (1,000 yen per day), Beginner (first time skiing):2,000 yen
Application: Applications will be accepted at the gymnastic office located in OUC.
1. Course objective and Method
Providing information related to the basics of Alpine skiing such as balance, basic position, gliding wedge, wedge turns,
and safe controlling of the skis. Providing opportunities to ski on the various different types of slopes and snow such as
powder snow, slushy snow, bumpy slopes, moguls but also steep slopes as well as terrain.
2. Course contents
Levels of skiing class (beginner/intermediate/advanced)
1. Advanced class (able to make short parallel turns and execute tight turns)
2. Intermediate (able to make long parallel turns)
3. Intermediate (able to negotiate narrower trails)
4. Intermediate (able to maintain both skis in same direction)
5. Intermediate (able to control your speed)
6. Beginner class (able to slow down and stop in a wedge or have skied 2 or 3 times)
7. Beginner class (first time skiing)16

3. Course goals
・Beginner class: getting used - sliding – gliding wedge
・Intermediate class: parallel skiing (longer radii) – basic elements of modern carving-techniques - carving in longradii with speed control
・Advanced class: top carving (longer & shorter radii) – dynamic change of direction - precise carving in shortradii- skiing on steep slopes
4. GradingThis course will be graded on a pass/fail basis. A maximum of one-day absences will be allowed. Non-participation willcount as an absence. The grade will be based on attendance, participation, and attitude.
5. Remarks
Students will be required to wear proper ski clothing with skis, boots, gloves and cap.

Introduction to Glocal Management
Core Subject

Instructor: Inoguchi Junji et al
Credits: 2 (Fall Semester)Course Code: 4101110

1. Course objective and method
The objective of this course is to assist students in developing abilities they will need to analyze business case studies
that concern management and marketing strategy issues from a glocal point of view.
The course uses interactive and practical case methods in order to teach students to think analytically, creatively, andcooperatively.
Class members are divided up into small groups who discuss issues that pertain to each case. Each group frames its
analysis and strategy and makes a presentation to the group at large.
2. Course Goals
The main objectives of this course are to improve the student’s ability in the following ways:
・Analyze a variety of business problems logically.
・Communicate cooperatively with other group members.
・Develop appropriate solutions (strategies) to solve the problems.
・Organize and present ideas effectively.
3. Course contents
Different instructors will focus on different types of business disciplines and perspectives such as marketing, strategy,organizational issues, and other topics.
Instructors guide students through these case analyses, ask questions, and present issues relevant to the case.
Different instructors may approach cases differently.
A tentative schedule of the course is as follows.
1. Introduction
2. Glocal Management: Marketing
3. Glocal Management: Marketing
4. Glocal Management: Marketing
5. Glocal Management: Strategy
6. Glocal Management: Strategy
7. Glocal Management: Strategy
8. Glocal Management: Management
9. Glocal Management: Management
10. Glocal Management: Management
11. Glocal Management: Marketing
12. Glocal Management: Marketing
13. Glocal Management: Marketing
14: Glocal Management: Strategy
15. Glocal Management: Strategy
4. Preparation and review lesson
In weeks that follow instructors will provide students with case materials in advance of group discussions.
It is absolutely necessary that students carefully read materials prior to performing group work. Any student who
registers for this class agrees to have the discipline to read the material in advance – This is an absolute requirement.
5. Teaching materials
17Printed materials for each case will be provided at least one week in advance of group discussions.
Students may also be asked to perform supplemental research on the Internet.
Instructors will provide guidance.
6. Grading
Class participation ： 30%
Case presentation ： 30%
Case study report ： 40%
7. Grading Criteria
100−90 Outstanding
89−80 Very good
79−70 Good
69−60 Satisfactory59 − 0 Fail8. Courses conducted by the ones with practical experiences
Yes
9. Method of class
Face-To-Face class
10. Additional information
Includes learning content on region (Hokkaido)

18

Spring Semester Subjects

19Instructor: Ikeda Shinsuke
Credits: 2 (Spring Quarter)

Business Economics IICore Subject(*Please see the Fall 2024 syllabus for reference)

Japanese Economy

Instructor: Matsumoto Tomoya
Credits: 2 (Spring Quarter)Core Subject(*This is the Spring 2024 syllabus for reference)
1. Course objective and method
This course aims to understand the causes of successes and failures of the Japanese economy and learn public policies
for creating a better and more prosperous society. To achieve this objective, we examine Japan's historical andcontemporary economic issues by analyzing data on the Japanese and world economy and reviewing articles innewspapers and academic journals.
2.Course Goals
To learn the history of the Japanese economy.
To learn the problems Japan faces today.
To learn innovative policies for creating a better and prosperous society from the Japanese experience of successes
and failures.
To learn valuable lessons from Japanese experiences for developing countries.
To learn how to read journal articles.
3.Course Contents
The course covers the following contents:
1. The economic development of Japan
2. Aging in Japan
3. Energy crisis in Japan
4. Trade policies in Japan
5. NEET and Hikikomori in Japan
6. Poverty in Japan
7. Tourism in Japan
4.Preparation and review class
Assignments for each topic will be given through Manaba.
5. Teaching materials
The instructor gives materials.
6. Grading
Grades will be determined based on assignments (reports) and contributions to the class through discussion.
7. Grading Criteria
A(秀): 100-90
B(優): 89-80
C(良): 79-70
D(可): 69-60
F(不可): 59-1
F(不可): 0
8. Remarks
No advanced knowledge of economic theory is required beyond the basic knowledge of introductory economics.
9. Method of class
Face-To-Face class
10. Additional information
20

Includes learning content on region (Hokkaido)

Introduction to Japanese Management
Core Subject

Instructor: Kobayashi Koji
Credits: 2 (Summer Quarter)(*This is the Summer 2024 syllabus for reference)
1. Course objective and method
The aim of this course is to introduce concepts and cases of Japanese management to students. The course is designed
to explore strengths and weaknesses of Japanese businesses and management in contrast to non-Japanese, mostly
Western, counterparts. While the content is about management, strategies and business organizations, most of the
discussions that take place during the course relate to values, cultures and practices that are unique to the context ofJapanese business.
To improve and maintain the level of student participation in class, this course employs teaching styles and methods for
active learning. Preparatory materials will be uploaded to the Manaba system or other online platforms whereappropriate. The classes will be mainly run in a style of group and individual discussions by students.
A filed trip may be arranged depending on the availability and circumstances, and accordingly the course schedule may
have to be changed to accommodate the field trip.
2. Course Goals
By completing this course, students will be able to:• Explain the basic concepts of Japanese management and their differences from Western counterparts• Discuss their own perspectives on pros and cons of Japanese management and appreciate diverse opinions of otherclassmates• Assess the uniqueness and location of Japanese management within a wider discussion of the best managerial
strategies and practices worldwide• Identify and analyze the characteristics of Japanese management academically in a written form
3. Course contents
Class 1:
Course outline
Class 2:
Debate basics and practice run
Class 3 & 4:
Japanese human resource management
Class 5 & 6:
Japanese cultural orientations
Class 7 & 8:
Japanese production system and quality management
Class 9 & 10:
Japanese industrial structure and arrangements
Class 11 & 12:
Academic writing exercise
Class 13 & 14:
Report planningClass 15:
Course summary
Course plan and schedule are subject to change depending on study progress and/or availability of field trip and guest
speakers.
4. Preparation and review classPreparation: Students are required to prepare and read assigned materials prior to each class. Students are also expected
to have checked Manaba frequently and kept themselves updated on any news, messages and changes.
Review: Students are expected to review the materials covered in class and make the most out of them when participating
in class and completing course tasks including the report.
5. Teaching materials
The textbook for the course is as follows:
Haghirian, P. (2010). Understanding Japanese Management Practices. Business Expert Press.
The textbook is available for purchase at the bookshop on campus or digitally through commercial services. A hardcopyof the book is also available at the library on campus for borrowing.
Other teaching materials will be uploaded to the Manaba system or other online platforms where appropriate.
21

6. Grading
Grading is based on outcomes of the following course tasks:•Individual class participation (including attendance) - 20%•Group discussion and debate - 20%•Academic writing exercise - 10%•Report plan - 10%•Report - 40%
7. Grading Criteria
A (Excellent): 100 - 90
B (Very good): 89 - 80
C (Good): 79 - 70
D (Satisfactory): 69 - 60
F (Unsatisfactory): 59 – 0
8. Remarks
In 2024, the course will be mainly organized and delivered by Dr. Koji Kobayashi (Glocal Education Unit, Centre for
Glocal Strategy). Please contact him directly if you have any questions about the course.
As this is a course available to our international exchange students, class communication and discussion will be
conducted mainly in English but may be supplemented in Japanese when it is deemed necessary and appropriate.
However, please note that the class readings, instructions and materials will be provided mainly in English and that thecourse tasks will need to be completed in English unless there is any agreement made to allow for exceptions.
本科目は海外からの短期交換留学生にも開かれた科目であるため、授業での会話および議論は主に英語で行いますが、
必要かつ適切と判断される場合には日本語で補足することがあります。ただし、リーディング、
インストラクションや資料は主に英語で提供され、例外を認める合意がない限り、科目の課題は英語で提出する必要がありますのでご留意ください。
9. Method of class
Face-To-Face class（including online classes less than 7 weeks）

Instructor: Matsumoto Tomoya
Wang Liyong
Credits: 2 (Summer Quarter)

Glocal Field Work I
Core Subject(*This is the Summer 2024 syllabus for reference)
1. Course objective and method
Fieldwork is the process of observing research objects (more specifically, people in social science) and collecting
observational data in the actual field.
The objective of this course is to learn how to plan and implement fieldwork. In this course we visit some sites in
Hokkaido for fieldwork, including ski areas, local factories, workshops, companies, tourism facilities, and markets.
2. Course Goals
This course aims to understand how to implement fieldwork, collect helpful information from research targets,summarize the collected information, and present the research outcomes.
3. Course Contents
This course covers the following contents:
1. Introduction
2. Finding research questions
3. Designing a research plan
4. Implementing fieldwork in Hokkaido
5. Reporting fieldwork outcomes
6. Presenting findings
4. Preparation and review class
Prior to each visit of the fieldwork site, students must collect as much information as possible and prepare researchquestions in advance.
22

5. Teaching materials
The material will be given by the instructor.
6. Grading
Class preparation and participation (20%)
Fieldwork (50%)
Presentation (30%)
7. Grading Criteria
This class follows the OUC guideline for grading, which is given by
A(秀): 100-90
B(優): 89-80
C(良): 79-70
D(可): 69-60
F(不可): 59-1
F(不可): 0
8. Remarks
The Glocal Fieldwork I will be given in the summer quarter (June and July). Besides Monday afternoon, we may also
adjust fieldwork schedule to other weekdays or even weekends.
9. Method of class
Face-To-Face class23

Glocal Seminars

24

Glocal Seminar I
Core Subject

Instructor: de Burgh-Hirabe Yoko
Credits: 2 (Fall Semester)Course Code: 4101250

1. Course objective and method
This course aims to improve students’ skills in academic English: essay writing skills in particular. To achieve this aim,
students will learn how to structure a paragraph and an essay, how to choose appropriate sources, and how to cite themcorrectly using APA style.
Students will practice paragraph writing, read and analyze academic texts, and discuss contemporary issues facing
Japanese society and cultural concepts of Japan. They will engage in learning activities individually and in pairs/groups.
2. Course Goals
Upon completing this course, the students will be able to:
1. Develop an outline and plan to write a basic academic essay
2. Communicate their discoveries to an audience in English verbally and through a PowerPoint presentation
3. Write an academic essay in English using APA style appropriately.
3. Course Contents
Week 1: Course information
Week 2: Introduction to academic writing
Weeks 3-6: Writing a paragraph (topic sentence, supporting details, quotations, and statistics)
Weeks 7-8: Paraphrasing
Week 9: Writing an essay
Weeks 10: Evaluating sources
Weeks 11-12: References - APA style
Weeks 13-15: Student presentations
Note: subject to revision throughout the semester
4. Preparation and review classPreparation: There will be assigned readings and/or tasks prior to each class. It is important to come to class preparedso that learning is effective. Students are also expected to check manaba frequently and keep themselves up to date withany news, messages and changes.
Review: Students are expected to review the materials covered in class and complete unfinished tasks before the nextclass.
5. Teaching Materials
Materials will be supplied by the teacher.
Recommended text:
Oshima, A., & Hogue, A. (2006). Writing academic English (4th ed.). Pearson Longman.
Ueda, I., Ueda, T., Taoka, C., Nakasaka, A., & Kashimoto, S. (2021). Take a stance. National Geographic.
6. Grading
Grading is based on outcomes of the following course tasks:•Active class participation: 10%•Formative assessment (e.g., academic word list quizzes and APA style tasks): 30%•Essay outline and plan: 10%•Written essay: 30%•Presentation of essay: 20%
7.Grading Criteria
A (Excellent): 100-90
B (Very good): 89-80
C (Good): 79-70
D (Satisfactory): 69-60
F (Unsatisfactory): 59-0
8. Remarks•All classes will be held face-to-face on campus (subject to change in circumstances).
25•Students are required to attend at least two thirds of classes to pass the course. In the event of absence from a class, email the teacher with the date of the class and explain the reason for missing the class. It is the students’ responsibility
to catch up with the missed class.
•English is the medium of instruction in this class.
•Students are expected to communicate in English during the class.
•Please note that any assignment that is late is subject to a 10% deduction off the mark per day. It is the students’
responsibility to submit the assignment properly on time.
•Students will receive zero mark for an in-class test if they are absent without notifying the teacher in advance.
•Regarding the use of AI tools in this course, you may use AI tools for brainstorming, for comprehension, and finding
new ways to say things. You may not use AI tools for the writing up of entire essays, assignments, or presentations.
Those should be written by you. Failure to do your own work may result in a lower grade or in failing the course.
9. Method of class
Face-To-Face class

Glocal Seminar Ⅱ

Instructors: Praet Carolus et al
Credits: 2 (Spring Semester)Core Subject(*This is the Spring 2024 syllabus for reference)
1. Course objective and method
The purpose of this course is to give students insights into what it theoretically and practically means to work in a
globalizing world.
This course will employ an omnibus style, in which 7-9 guest speakers will talk about their work and career experiencesin different industries.
Classes will feature lectures by a guest speaker, group discussion, presentation, and Q&A. In addition, some classes will
focus on preparatory study of the industry in which a specific guest speaker works/has worked.
After each class, students will need to submit an assignment given by the coordinator or the guest speaker.
Classes will most likely be held on Zoom in real time. Depending on the pandemic situation, it may be possible to invite
guest speakers to come physically and give lectures in the classroom.
2. Course Goals
The course objectives are as follows.
1) give students a better understanding of theoretical knowledge and its use in the business world (and/or in non-profit
organizations);
2) help students think about their own future career plans;3) re-recognize the importance of English skills.
3. Course Contents
To be announced soon after adjusting schedules and contents with the guest speakers.
4. Preparation and review classStudents need to preview material prior to attending class and submit essays after each module.
5. Teaching Materials
Materials will either be provided by the instructor or will be available via our 'manaba' system.
6. Grading
Grading will be based on level of preparation, class participation, performance in the presentation and individual essay
reports.
7.Grading Criteria
Quality of prior learning and class participation: 40%
All students should participate in class by actively asking questions and presenting opinions. It is essential that students
actively participate in group discussions.
26

Group presentation: 30%
Each group member is required to take charge of a part of the presentation.
Essay reports: 30%
8. Remarks
All classes will be conducted in English.
9. Courses conducted by those with practical experiences
Yes
10. Outline of their practical experiences
To be announced at the start of the course.
11. Relevance between their practical experiences and the course
Guest speakers have extensive working experience in the business world and have used English as an essential part oftheir jobs.
12. Method of class
Face-To-Face class（including online classes less than 7 weeks）
12. Additional information
Includes learning content on region (Hokkaido)

Glocal Seminar III & IV
(Econ, Comm)

Instructors:(Econ) Matsumoto Tomoya & Ikeda Shinsuke(Comm) Kobayashi Koji
Credits: 2 (Fall & Spring Semester)Core Subject
Course Code (Fall):Econ III: 4101280 / Econ IV: 4101320
Comm III: 4101300 / Comm IV: 4101340

1. Course objective and method
Glocal Seminar III (GS3) and IV (GS4) are designed to develop knowledge and skills to pursue academic research. In
GS3, students 1) learn the basics of qualitative and/or quantitative social science studies with instructors' tutoring
through readings of existing studies, discussions in the class, and/or fieldwork, and 2) find their research topic by theend of the course. In GS4, students pursue their research along with instructors' guides.
2. Course Goals
The seminars focus on the acquisition of knowledge and skills that are necessary to conduct empirical research.
Empirical research uses qualitative and quantitative data and methods to understand the mechanism behind real-world
phenomena. It complements theoretical research and helps us deeply understand social issues and problems and develop
policy implications for their solutions by combining theoretical analyses. Students learn the basics in GS3, and apply
the knowledge and methods for their research projects and summarize the outcomes in GS4.
The GS3 goals are to learn the basics of:
1. How to find research questions in the field of social science through the reading of existing studies (literature review).
2. To learn how to collect observational, experimental, and dialogical information (e.g., survey, experiment design, casestudy, interview, and participant observation).
3. How to analyze and summarize the information to be collected.
4. To choose a research topic.
The GS4 goals are to apply the basics of the empirical research learned in GS3:
1. How to design a research project using a relevant method for the research topic.
2. To implement the project and collect the information necessary for the study.
27

3. How to summarize and present the research outcomes in the seminar.
3. Course Contents
We offer two series of Glocal Seminars parallelly in each semester. One is the economics-oriented series called GSEcon(referring to GS3Econ and GS4Econ), and the other is the commerce-oriented series called GSComm (referring to
GS3Comm and GS4Comm). Students can choose either GSEcon or GSComm based on their interests.
Profs. Ikeda and Matsumoto are in charge of GSEcon, while Profs. Kobayashi and Wang are of GSComm.
The GSEcon focuses more on quantitative studies (e.g., statistics, survey, and experimental design), while the GSComm
does more on qualitative studies (e.g., case study, interview, and participant observation).
When students take the Glocal Seminar series, the first course is counted as GS3, while the second course is counted as
GS4. For instance, a typical student takes GS3 in the fall semester of the 3rd year to learn the basics of research methods
and takes GS4 in the fall semester of the 4th year to apply the methods to implement their research projects.
Although students can technically take GS3Econ and GS4Comm, or vice versa, the instructors highly recommend you
enroll in both GS3 and GS4 from the same series (i.e., GS3Econ and GS4Econ, or GS3Comm and GS4Comm) to deepen
your knowledge and skills in either field, particularly for the Glocal Course students (グローカル主専攻学生).
4. Preparation and review lesson
Assignments will be given through Manaba.
5. Teaching Materials
Materials are given by the instructors.
6. Grading
Grades will be determined based on seminar participation, class presentation, and final report. The details are given by
instructors.
7.Grading Criteria
This class follows the OUC guideline for grading, which is given by
A(秀): 100-90
B(優): 89-80
C(良): 79-70
D(可): 69-60
F(不可): 59-1
F(不可): 0
8. Remarks
Students must attend the course orientation session, where course details are given. The session schedule (URL andtime) will be announced through Manaba by April 1, 2022.
There are no prerequisite courses for this class. However, it is preferred to take some basic courses such as BusinessEconomics I/II (ビジネス経済学 I/II), Microeconomics (ミクロ経済学), Introduction to Empirical Research (実証研究入門) and Statistics (統計学) for GSEcon; and marketing and management related courses for GSComm in advance.
9. Courses conducted by the ones with practical experiences
Yes
10. Outline of their practical experiences
Prof. Matsumoto: Visiting Scientist at International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
11. Method of class
Face-To-Face class28

12. Additional information
Includes learning content on region (Hokkaido)

Glocal Seminar III & IV (Linguistics)
Core Subject

Instructor: Nishiguchi Sumiyo
Credits: 2 (Fall & Spring Semester)Course Code (Fall): III: 4101360 / IV: 4101380
1. Course objective and method
The central area of study is linguistics, the study of language. The linguistic subfield called formal semantics investigatesthe meaning of language from logical and mathematic perspectives. The seminar meets on Thursday 4th and 5th periods
together with the third and fourth year students in the daytime course.
In this seminar, students choose and read a book written in English, typically an introductory textbook before thesemester starts. In April, students present book reviews that include the summary and comments on the book they read.
After that, students will start reading a course material in the form of what is called rindoku in Japanese, in which
students take turns in explaining the assigned pages of the book to other students. Then eventually they conduct studies
on their own topic.
2. Course Goals
While writing a research paper is a final goal, international communication plays an important role. Students willcommunicate in English during seminars.
3. Course Contents
April: book review / report of studying abroad during spring break
May-June: reading textbooks
July: projectAugust: ESSLLI Summer School
September-October: reading textbooks
December: project
January: presentation of termpaper/project work
4. Preparation and review lesson
Students should read the assigned portion of the course material before each seminar.
5. Teaching Materials
1. Richard K. Larson (2022) Semantics as Science, The MIT Press.
6.Gradingclass activity: 60%
term paper/project work: 40%
7.Grading Criteria
A：Excellent performance
B：Good performance
C : Solid performance
D : Minimally satisfactory performance
8. Remarks
The attendees are encouraged to attend ESSLLI Summer School in Leuven, Belgium between July 29 and August 9,
2024. Students are expected to speak in English at seminars.
9. URL of syllabus or other information
https://www.otaru-uc.ac.jp/~nishiguchi/
10. Notes
office hours: Thursdays 12pm-12:50pm
office location:
1-316

29

Japanese Language

30Instructor: Takebe Yu
Yamamoto Sayaka

Japanese I
Japanese language subject

Course Code: 4300100

Credits: 3 (Fall Semester)

1. Course objective and method
Japanese-I offers an introduction to Japanese language, and is designed for the international students who are in the
short program. This course aims to acquire and improve the basic four skills of speaking, listening, reading, andwriting, and also deepen the sociocultural knowledge of Japan through face-to-face instruction, in-class activities(group works, etc.), assignments, and projects. This course will introduce hiragana, katakana, and about 150 kanji
characters and cover from Lesson 1 to Lesson 10 in Genki-I. It will also use supplementary materials to introduce
useful phrases and terminology for daily use.
2. Course Goals
By the end of the term, students will be able to:1) speak Japanese with an intelligible pronunciation and appropriate fluency
2) demonstrate interactional competence relevant to everyday conversation3) write short sentences or paragraphs on familiar topics, using hiragana, katakana, and some kanji.
4) read and understand the main points of beginner-level writings.
5) discuss various aspects of Japan’s unique cultures.
3. Course Contents
Week 1 : Orientation, Hiragana, Katakana, Pre-textbook exercises
Week 2 : Hiragana, Katakana, Pre-textbook exercises, Lesson 1 ‘New friends’
Week 3 : Lesson 1 ‘New friends’, Review
Week 4 : Lesson 2 ‘Shopping’, Review
Week 5 : Lesson 3 ‘Making a date’, Review
Week 6 : Lesson 4 ‘The first date’, Review
Week 7 : Review of Lesson 1-4, Lesson test
Week 8 : Lesson 5 ‘A trip to Okinawa’ , Review
Week 9 : Lesson 6 ‘A day in Robert’s life’, Review
Week 10: Lesson 7 ‘Family picture’, Review
Week 11: Lesson 8 ‘Barbecue’, Review
Week 12: Review of Lesson 5-8, Lesson test
Week 13: Lesson 9 ‘Kabuki’, Review
Week 14: Lesson 10 ‘Winter vacation plans’, Review
Week 15: Review sessions
Week 16: Final Exam or Project(*This schedule is subject to change.)
4. Preparation and review class
Before you attend each class, you need to:1) read the textbook (grammar points and vocabulary etc.) and get familiar with the materials.
2) do homework and assignments in order to participate in each class fully and actively.
3) actively engage in any kinds of activities in Japanese as much as possible.
After you attend each class, you need to:1) Review each lesson and get familiar with new vocab, kanji, and grammar points.
2) Complete and submit homework assignments on time.
3) Prepare for lesson tests, and vocab & kanji quizzes (there might be pop quizzes).
5. Teaching materials
Genki-I, the 3rd edition, The Japan Times
Genki-I Workbook, the 3rd edition, The Japan Times
6. Grading
Attendance & Participation: 100 points
Homework Assignments (drills etc.): 20 points x 5
Lesson Tests and/or Projects: 100 points x 3
Quizzes: 20 points x 5
Final Exam or Final Project: 100 points x1(*The number of tests, projects and assignments is subject to change.)
7. Grading Criteria31

A: 100-90%
Can communicate in Japanese in daily life and deal with common situations.
B: 89-80%
Can mostly communicate in Japanese in daily life and deal with common situations.
C: 79-70%
Can mostly communicate in Japanese with some help in daily life and deal with common situations.
D: 69-60%
Can mostly communicate in Japanese with a lot of help in daily life.
F: 59-0%
Difficult to communicate in Japanese in daily life.
8. Remarks●Attendance/Participation:
Students are expected to attend and participate fully in all scheduled class meetings. Students are highly encouraged tomake the best use of their opportunity to practice Japanese in the classroom. 100pts will be given as participation
points at the end of the term. Please note that excessive absences, tardies, and lack of efforts/participation in classroom
activities will result in points deduction. 6 absences are allowed without penalties. 7 or more absences unrelated tosickness are considered as excessive absences. If you feel sick, do not attend class. Please notify your instructor if/when
you will be unable to attend class.
●Homework/Assignments:
Students are expected to complete their homework/assignments in a timely manner. Points will be reduced if
assignments are not handed in on time.
●Academic Integrity:
Any student who is found guilty of plagiarism, fabrication, representing someone else's work and ideas as his/her own,
and/or purchasing papers will receive a failing grade on the assignment. Students helping other students in a way that
violates academic integrity will also receive the same consequences. Students must understand and follow the OUC’s
academic Integrity Policy.
●Classroom Climate:
It is my intent that students from diverse backgrounds and perspectives be well served by this course and that yourlearning needs be addressed both in and out of class. The diversity that students bring to this class is to be viewed as aresource, strength and benefit. It is my intent to present materials and activities that are respectful of diversity: gender,
sexuality, religion, age, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, race, culture, etc. I encourage you to let me know of ways toimprove the class experience for you personally or for other students. Your suggestions are wanted and appreciated.
9. Method of class
Face-To-Face class

Japanese II (Fall Semester)
Japanese language subject

Course Code: 4300120

Instructor: Takebe Yu
Credits: 3 (Fall Semester)

1. Course objective and method
Japanese II is designed for international students who are in the short program and have successfully completed Japanese
I or the equivalent. It aims to further improve the four skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing, and also deepen
the sociocultural knowledge of Japan through face-to-face instruction, in-class activities (group works, etc.),
assignments, and projects. This course will use Genki-I and Genki-II and cover from Lesson 11 to Lesson 21 andintroduce about 300-400 kanji characters. It will also use supplementary materials to introduce useful phrases andterminology for daily use.
2. Course goals
By the end of the term, students will be able to:1) speak Japanese with an intelligible pronunciation and appropriate fluency
2) demonstrate interactional competence relevant to everyday conversation3) write short sentences or paragraphs on familiar topics, using hiragana, katakana, and some kanji.
4) read and understand the main points of beginner-level writings.
5) discuss various aspects of Japan’s unique cultures.
3. Course Contents
Week 1 : Orientation, Review Session, Lesson 11 (Genki-I)
Week 2 : Lesson 11 (Genki-I), Review
Week 3 : Lesson 12 (Genki-I), Review
Week 4 : Lesson 13 (Genki-II) ‘Looking for a Part-time Job’, Review
32

Week 5 : Lesson 14 ‘Valentine’s Day’, Review
Week 6 : Review of Lesson 11-14
Week 7 : Lesson 15 ‘A Trip to Nagano’, Review
Week 8 : Lesson 16 ‘Lost and Found’, Review
Week 9 : Lesson 17 ‘Grumble and Gossip’, Review
Week 10: Lesson 18 ‘John’s Part-time Job’, Review
Week 11: Review of Lesson 15-18
Week 12: Lesson 19 ‘Meeting the Boss’, Review
Week 13: Lesson 20 ‘Mary Goes Shopping’, Review
Week 14: Lesson 21 ‘Burglar’, Review
Week 15: Review sessions
Week 16: Final Exam or Project(*This schedule is subject to change.)
4. Preparation and review lesson
Before you attend each class, you need to:1) read the textbook (grammar points and vocabulary etc.) and get familiar with the materials.
2) do homework and assignments in order to participate in each class fully and actively.
3) actively engage in any kinds of activities in Japanese as much as possible.
After you attend each class, you need to:1) Review each lesson and get familiar with new vocab, kanji, and grammar points.
2) Complete and submit homework assignments on time.
3) Prepare for lesson tests, and vocab & kanji quizzes (there might be pop quizzes).
5. Teaching materials
Genki-I, the 3rd edition, The Japan Times
GENKI-II, the 3rd edition, The Japan Times
GENKI-II Workbook, the 3rd edition, The Japan Times
6. Grading
Attendance & Participation: 100 points
Homework Assignments (drills etc.): 20 points x 5
Lesson Tests and/or Projects: 100 points x 3
Quizzes: 20 points x 5
Final Exam or Final Project: 100 points x1(*The number of tests, projects and assignments is subject to change.)
7. Grading Criteria
A: 100-90%
Can communicate in Japanese in daily life and deal with common situations.
B: 89-80%
Can mostly communicate in Japanese in daily life and deal with common situations.
C: 79-70%
Can mostly communicate in Japanese with some help in daily life and deal with common situations.
D: 69-60%
Can mostly communicate in Japanese with a lot of help in daily life.
F: 59-0%
Difficult to communicate in Japanese in daily life.
8. Remarks●Attendance/Participation:
Students are expected to attend and participate fully in all scheduled class meetings. Students are highly encouraged tomake the best use of their opportunity to practice Japanese in the classroom. 100pts will be given as participation
points at the end of the term. Please note that excessive absences, tardies, and lack of efforts/participation in classroom
activities will result in points deduction. 6 absences are allowed without penalties. 7 or more absences unrelated tosickness are considered as excessive absences. If you feel sick, do not attend class. Please notify your instructor if/when
you will be unable to attend class.
●Homework/Assignments:
Students are expected to complete their homework/assignments in a timely manner. Points will be reduced if
assignments are not handed in on time.
●Academic Integrity:
Any student who is found guilty of plagiarism, fabrication, representing someone else's work and ideas as his/her own,33

and/or purchasing papers will receive a failing grade on the assignment. Students helping other students in a way that
violates academic integrity will also receive the same consequences. Students must understand and follow the OUC’s
academic Integrity Policy.
●Classroom Climate:
It is my intent that students from diverse backgrounds and perspectives be well served by this course and that yourlearning needs be addressed both in and out of class. The diversity that students bring to this class is to be viewed as aresource, strength and benefit. It is my intent to present materials and activities that are respectful of diversity: gender,
sexuality, religion, age, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, race, culture, etc. I encourage you to let me know of ways toimprove the class experience for you personally or for other students. Your suggestions are wanted and appreciated.
9. Method of class
Face-To-Face class

Japanese II (Spring Semester)

Instructor: TBA
Credits: 3 (Spring Semester)

Japanese language subjects
TBA

Japanese III

Instructor: TBA
Credits: 3 (Spring Semester)

Japanese language subjects
TBA

34

Daily Life35

After your arrival
A tutor will be arranged to meet you when you arrive at Otaru station. Your tutor will take you to The International
House and help you settle down.
Following are some useful information and the procedures that you will go through upon your arrival.

1. To Hokkaido

Otaru University of Commerce is located in Otaru city, Hokkaido Japan. Please arrange to have your flight arrive at
New Chitose Airport (CTS).
Please arrange your flight to arrive in Otaru on the following suggested dates.
Suggested dates: September 17 – 19, 2024
*Note: Mandatory YOUC Orientation on September 24.
September 16 is the National Holiday and the university is CLOSED.

2. To Otaru City

From the New Chitose Airport, please come to Otaru City by train (via JR = Japan Railways
Hokkaido, approx. 80 minutes, 1,910 JPY). A designated tutor (for YOUC students, weassign tutors) from OUC will meet you at the JR Otaru station. He/She will come with you
to OUC campus either by a bus or a taxi (bus: 240 JPY, taxi: approx. 950 JPY).
(Note: Fares are subject to change)

3. Visit the International Office:Your tutor will take you to the International office upon your arrival.
● Please bring your passport and residence card (given at the airport) for photocopies.
● You will be given the key for your room in the International House. Your tutor will take you to the House.
● You will be given your private on-campus mailbox for notices from the office. Your tutor will show you the locationof your mail-box.

4. Necessary paper works(1) Move-in notification
Foreign nationals in Japan must complete applications for Move-in notification at the municipal office of the area inwhich they live. Any changes of their status should be reported immediately. The following documents are required
for registration:
1. Move-in notification form (prepared in the International Office)
2. Passport
3. Residence card *The address you report will be written on the back side of the card.
(2) National Health Insurance
All international students who will stay in Japan for 3 months or over are required to register for National Health
Insurance. You shall apply for it at the city hall upon completion of your move-in notification.
For most of our students the insurance premium is around 1,600 yen per month (the insurance premium depends on
the income levels earned in Japan). The insurance covers 70 percent of most ordinary medical costs. Students
incurring major medical expenses because of hospitalization may be further eligible for a refund or loan from National
Health Insurance to cover the excess amount.

5. Other important issues(1) Part-time job (Out-of-status activities)
International students with a college student status visa are prohibited to work in Japan. However, a limited job tocompensate academic and living expenses may be allowed as long as you obtain permission from the Immigration
Bureau and the job does not interfere with academic studies. You can apply for permission at the Narita, Haneda,
Chubu, Kansai, New Chitose, Hiroshima and Fukuoka airport or at Immigration Bureau in Sapporo with yourresidence card.
(2) Traveling outside Japan
When traveling outside of Japan during the term of your Japanese visa, students are required to notify the International
Office. If you leave Japan temporarily with your residence card, you do not need to apply for a reentry permit at the
Immigration Bureau before leaving.
36

International House
The International House, an apartment (flat) type dormitory for researchers and international students at Otaru
University of Commerce, is located on campus of the university in the southwest of Otaru city, two kilometers up a
steep hill from Otaru station. The address of the International House is: 4-4-15 Midori, Otaru, Hokkaido, 047-0034,
Japan

1. Eligibility of residence

The following persons are eligible for residence in the International House:
1. International students attending OUC, and their spouse and children.
2. International researchers engaging in research at OUC for more than one month and their spouse and children.
3. Other persons approved by the house master.

2. Expenses to be paid by residents

1. Boarding fee(1) Residents holding the title of international student must pay a boarding fee as listed below.
(2) The boarding fee shall be paid monthly and cannot be divided daily (even if you move-in or out halfway of themonth you must pay fully for the month).
Boarding fee (international students)
Type of room

Boarding fee (monthly)

Single room

￥12,800

Double room

￥25,800

2. Utility costs(1) A resident must pay electricity, gas and water charges for his/her own living space directly to related companies.
Payment is measured by separate meters attached to each room.
(2) A resident is responsible for any payments which originate from a contract made by him/herself. Telephone isincluded in this example.

3. Security money deposit
A resident must pay the security money deposit when he/she starts dwelling in the International House as listed
below. When a resident vacates his/her room, he/she must pay cleaning fees, which is deducted from the security
money deposit.
Type of room

Security money deposit

Single room

￥60,000

Double room

￥100,000

3. Facilities

There are single and double rooms in the International House. Students with family members accompanying them
may apply for a double room. Each room is equipped with a kitchen, a unit bath and the following facilities:
Items installed in each room:(1) Single room
bed, quilt, mattress, mattress pad, desk, chair, desk lamp, bookshelf, refrigerator, microwave, wardrobe, gas range,gas water heater, gas heater, shower curtain, intercom, and dehumidifier(2) Double room
bed, quilt, mattress, mattress pad, desk, chair, desk lamp, bookshelf, refrigerator, microwave, wardrobe, washing37

machine, dining table, two dining chairs, cupboard, gas range, gas water heater, gas heater, intercom, anddehumidifier
There is a common lounge for the residents in the house. Coin-operated washers and dryers* are available in thelaundry room for single room residents.
*Please note that you need 100-yen coins to use the washers and dryers and there is no change machine in the house.

4. Free Wi-Fi
There is Wi-Fi network free of charge in the International House for residents.
5. NO SMOKING and NO ALCOHOL POLICYSMOKING and ALCOHOL beverages are NOT ALLOWED in the International House at any time.
Otaru University of Commerce is 100% Alcohol and Smoking FREE on its campus including university residence at
any time.

38

Daily Life in Otaru
1. Living costs

Estimated living costs per month for the students living in the international house are as follows:
International House

12,800 yen

Food Expenses

18,000 yen – 25,000 yen

Books

5,000 yen – 10,000 yen

Utility

8,000 yen – 15,000 yen

National Health Insurance (mandatory)

Approx. 1,600 yen

Other expenses

10,000 yen – 20,000 yen

Total

55,400 yen – 84,400 yen

2. Transportation

There is a bus service from Otaru station to the university. To reach the university, take the route 19 bus from Otaru
station and get off at the terminal. The university is only across the road from the bus stop. The fare is 240 yen and it iscommon for all bus routes in the city center. You can also use some Japanese transportation IC cards such as Kitaca and
SAPICA other than cash for payment. Frequency of the bus service is about once every thirty minutes for most of the
day and every ten minutes in the morning.
It is also possible to walk from the station or the city center to the university, and it takes around twenty minutes.
However, since the university is located at the top of the mountain, many students who commute from the outside ofOtaru take a bus or a taxi to go to the university in the morning and walk when they go home in the evening. The taxi
fare for one way between the station and the university is around 950 yen.

3. City life

There are supermarkets, drug stores, convenience stores and other shops for daily shopping around Otaru station andsome Shopping Streets nearby.
From the station straight down to the sea, you can walk to the Otaru Canal. On the way and around, you can find manysightseeing spots and gift shops (such as glassware and music boxes) frequented by tourists.
For a bigger shopping or events, students probably want to go to Sapporo, the biggest city in Hokkaido. There are twoalternatives to go to Sapporo station. One is to take JR (Japan Railway) train (one-way fare: 750 yen). The rapid train
services (normally two services per hour) take you to Sapporo in 32 minutes while normal services take about 50 minutes.
Although the highway bus fare is slightly cheaper (one-way fare: 680 yen), it takes about one hour or more dependingon the road condition.
(Note: Fares are subject to change)

39

YOUC Program FAQ

40

YOUC Program frequently asked questions
Q. Do I need a Visa to enter Japan even if Japan does not require a Visa for visitors from my country?
A. Yes, you MUST apply for a Student Visa prior to entering Japan
Q. How much cash should I bring with me?
A. Students usually need about 120,000 JPY (yen) in cash for the first 2 – 4 weeks in Japan. While main stores (including
convenience stores) can accept overseas credit cards, some official procedures may require cash for the fee. We
recommend students to have some cash always in hand. You can withdraw JPY with your credit card at some ATM(including on-campus one).
Estimate of minimum living cost for the first two weeks are approximately:Transportation (from New Chitose Airport to Otaru): 3,000 yen
Security money deposit for your room: 60,000 yen
Food: 15,000 yen
Daily necessities and miscellaneous goods: 15,000 yen
Here is a list of approximate fees and prices for your information:
Soft drink (500ml): 150 yen
Milk (1L): 250 yen
Bread (1 loaf): 250 yen
Lunch at OUC: 550 yen
Movie: 1,800 yen
Dinner out: 3,500 yen
And please remember that the coin-operated washers and dryers in the International House accept 100-yen coins ONLY.
We recommend you to keep 100-yen coins because there is no change machine nor any other instant way to get them in
the house.
Q. Can I be certain that there will be a room available for me at the International House?
A. Yes, all the YOUC program students are eligible to live in the International House.
Q. How will I know my room number?
A. The International Office will give you the room information before you come to Japan and a key to the room upon
your arrival.
Q. How far is the dormitory (International House) from the university?
A. The International House is on campus and it only takes within 5 minutes to walk to the main lecture building.
Q. Will I have free internet access in my room in the International House?
A. Yes, you can use Free Wi-Fi access there.
Q. Should I learn Japanese before coming?
A. We recommend that you study Japanese for your daily life before coming if possible. There are quite a few students
who understand and speak English at the university, but with the exception of the information counter at the airport,
most people whom you will encounter at shops, businesses, and restaurants do not speak fluent English.
Many doctors at large hospitals are able to communicate in English and the names of train stations and othertransportation information are also available in English.
Q. If I have very strong Japanese language skills may I enroll in courses that are taught in Japanese?
A. Yes, with permission from the instructor of the course, you are eligible to enroll in most of the same courses offeredto Japanese students.

41