JPS1090 - Understanding Contemporary Japan

Leader: Alison Tokita

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit provides a necessary introduction to Japan for students who take Japanese language courses or wish to proceed to further Japanese studies units. Topics include Hiroshima and the war trials, the occupation, the economic development of post-war Japan, the legal structure, the socio-cultural and political dynamics of postwar Japan and its relations with the outside world, especially Australia.

Objectives

On successfully completing this unit, students will have:

1. Gained an understanding of the socio-economic and political dynamics of postwar Japan, its culture, and its relations with the outside world, especially Australia.
2. Had experience in cricitally analyzing popular images or stereotypes that have served to colour the way Japan is viewed in Australia.
3. Acquired familiarity with the major events shaping Japan's postwar history, the key institutions and issues in contemporary Japanese society and Japan in the international system.
4. Improved their writing skills, as a basis for further development in second-year and third-year units.

Assessment

Essay (2500 words): 50%
Tutorial presentation and participation: 15%
Examinations (2 hours): 35%

Contact hours

3 hours (2 x 1 hour lectures and 1 x 1 hour tutorial) per week