Spring 2021
JAPN 312: Japanese for the Professions
This course is designed to develop a functional use of Japanese and cultural perspectives and concepts for professional occupations such as education, business, technology, and hospitality. Students will learn how to interact and collaborate in a variety of situations that focus on business etiquette and effective communication as members of the business community. Taught in Japanese.
MLO 1 Japanese Language and Communication
MLO 1 Japanese Language and Communication
Work Example
In this course, we learned how to use Japanese language and cultural perspectives effectively in a professional context. The course is designed to develop the skills and knowledge needed for various occupations, but primarily for business or traditional office environments. I learned how to interact and collaborate with others in a variety of business settings, focusing on business etiquette and effective communication as members of the business community. We were also taught how to apply cultural concepts and perspectives to various situations, such as negotiating, presenting, and networking. Since the course was taught in Japanese, it emphasized the development of practical language skills, including specialized vocabulary and expressions used typically only in professional settings. By the end of the course, I developed a deeper understanding of Japanese business culture, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with Japanese colleagues and clients. These skills and knowledge are essential for anyone interested in pursuing a career in a field related to Japan or Japanese language and culture.
JAPN 212: Samurai Spirit
This course explores the four periods of the samurai tradition to survey changing roles and philosophy behind its existence. The survey will analyze contemporary images/stereotypes of the samurai. The course employs ancient war tales, historical documents and paintings, maps, articles, literary works, different genres of samurai films, and videos to fully examine one of the most popular Japanese cultural icons. Taught in English.
MLO 2 Japanese Culture
MLO 2 Japanese Culture
Work Example
While taking this class, I learned about the history and cultural significance of the samurai tradition in Japan. The course explored the four periods of the samurai tradition, from its origins to its decline, and surveys the changing roles and ideologies behind its existence. We analyzed contemporary images and stereotypes of the samurai in popular culture and media, and learned how they differ from the historical reality. The course employs various resources, such as war tales, historical documents and paintings, maps, articles, literary works, different genres of samurai films, and videos, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the samurai tradition and its impact on Japanese society and culture. Since it was taught in English, the course familiarized us students with key concepts, vocabulary, and terminology related to the samurai tradition, and provided a different perspective on its portrayal in popular culture in the west and east. By the end of the course, I gained a deeper appreciation of one of the most popular Japanese cultural icons and its historical significance, as well as the ability to analyze and interpret cultural artifacts and media related to the samurai tradition.