Module JPNS1041: Introduction to Japanese Culture

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures (Japanese)

JPNS1041: Introduction to Japanese Culture

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

Aims

• To introduce students to key aspects of Japanese culture and society.
• To help students engage with their topics through critical approaches and analyse the contribution of Japanese culture in a global context.
• To encourage students to acquire critical modes of enquiry.

Content

• This module will introduce students to major aspects of Japanese culture (including arts/performing arts, literature, religion, thought, film, and popular culture), along with general understanding of Japanese society.

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the module students will have:
• developed a basic understanding of Japanese culture, while demonstrating critical and comparative approaches to features of Japanese culture and society.

• By the end of the module students will:
• have gained the ability to contextualise, critically engage with, and effectively analyse key elements in Japanese culture.
• be able to relate developments and issues in contemporary Japan to their cultural and social context.

• By the end of this module students will:
• have improved written and oral communication skills.
• develop the ability to work independently, with effective reading and research skills.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• A weekly lecture will deliver key information on the module.
• A fortnightly seminar with smaller groups will allow for active discussion.
• The summative essays are based on topics covered during the Michaelmas Term and early part of the Epiphany Term; the examination covers work carried out throughout the year.
• This assessment format responds to the need for students to articulate and structure their thoughts in writing as preparation for the final-year dissertation, as well as preparing them for assessment by examination at levels II and III.
• Students are expected to attend lectures and seminars, prepare themselves for classes and to participate actively in discussions.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Oral feedback on seminar presentations.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University