This course assists you in learning not only specific information about Japan but also gives you insights into the Japanese mind, psyche and world views, in a manner designed to enable to appreciate Japan as an astute outsider looking in from an academic perspective, complemented by interaction with students from Japan. This course exposes you Japanese values and issues as reflected in contemporary domestic and international issues. Additionally, the class will view various video programs. You are expected to take notes on all videos shown in class, and this material may be part of the quizzes. Handouts will also be distributed periodically in class and the content may be on quizzes.
Accounts are valid for the academic year.
An integral part of the course is the Japan Watch, a reading of designated newspapers and periodicals on a weekly basis with the purpose of each student reporting orally in class on what is currently being written about Japan. The object of this project is to gain factual information and interpretative perspectives on what is happening in Japan during the fall of 1996. It may be necessary for you to read earlier issues published in the summer and spring of 1996 in order to get a longer perspective on issues covered. Every week you are allotted five minutes to report to the class what your publication had to say about Japan. Organize your thoughts in advance and do not read the articles to the class since this is boring and a waste of time.