JAPA108-17S1 (C) Semester One 2017

Introduction to Japanese Culture

15 points

Details:
Start Date: Monday, 20 February 2017
End Date: Sunday, 25 June 2017
Withdrawal Dates
Last Day to withdraw from this course:
  • Without financial penalty (full fee refund): Friday, 3 March 2017
  • Without academic penalty (including no fee refund): Friday, 19 May 2017

Description

A survey course which covers selected topics of Japan's society, geography, institutions and thought.

This first year course introduces the main cultural characteristics of Japan. Topics covered include a general introduction to Cultural Studies, then a particularised study of Japan's culture, land and people, regional cultural variety, myths, religions, belief-systems, aesthetics, youth culture, anime, sports, games, literature, film and performing arts.
No previous knowledge of the Japanese language is required.

Learning Outcomes

  • JAPA108 is a requirement for those intending to major in Japanese and important for those intending to have contact with Japan.

    By the end of the course students should have:

  • a familiarity with key cultural and historical developments in Japan from early times to the present day;
  • knowledge of basic facts about Japan;
  • knowledge of aspects of Japanese culture and major art forms, as well as their underlying aesthetic principles;
  • an understanding of the influence of global conditions on Japan and competence in engaging with global and multi-cultural contexts;
  • a familiarity with cultural beliefs and values in Japan, which in turn will develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultures other than your own;
  • a familiarity with ethnic diversity and indigenous cultures in Japan, which will in turn heighten awareness and understanding of the cultural landscape and biculturalism in Aotearoa NZ;
  • basic skills in research, analysis and essay writing – key skills that are sought by employers and can be used in a range of applications.

    In addition, for students majoring in Japanese, this course will provide you with:
  • vital knowledge on Japan to underpin your language studies and enable you to critically evaluate and, where applicable, apply to Japan-related topics/issues. This in turn will enhance your opportunities for a successful career.

Course Coordinator / Lecturer

Susan Bouterey

Lecturer

Rachel Payne

Guest Lecturers

Richard Bullen (UC Art History) , Masayoshi Ogino (UC Japanese) and Henk de Groot

Assessment

Assessment Due Date Percentage 
Quiz (end of 3rd week) 5%
Written test 1 (end of term one) 30%
Written test 2 (end of term two) 30%
Essay proposal 5%
Essay (1,500 words) 30%

Textbooks / Resources

There is no required textbook for this course.

Course links

Library portal
LEARN The Course Outline is available for enrolled students on LEARN.

Indicative Fees

Domestic fee $732.00

International fee $2,975.00

* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.

For further information see Language, Social and Political Sciences .

All JAPA108 Occurrences

  • JAPA108-17S1 (C) Semester One 2017