This is a high level advanced language course (on the same level as Seminar A and Japanese-English Translation; thus, higher than the Advanced Japanese Language courses).  It serves three purposes.  First, it serves as an intermediate stage between advanced group language study and independent research.  Second, it allows students to familiarise themselves with key concepts and issues of International Relations  and Politics.  Third, it improves the students' ability to read Japanese texts in International Relations and Politics.

Using authentic materials from electronic and print media, writings in popular and academic journals, which are written in contemporary language, the course introduces students to both the basic conceptual terminology in the field of International Relations and Politics, and to the major happenings in Japan's relations with the rest of the world and how these relate to more recent international and domestic political issues related to Japan.

By the conclusion of the course, students should be familiar with the appropriate Japanese language tools necessary for reading in International Relations and Politics and for writing research essays in Japanese in these fields of study.

1 essay in Japanese (4 pages of genkooyooshi; 1,600 ji) based on a research project. (10%)

1 class presentation based on a research project  (10%)

1 Japanese-English translation of a text (4 pages of A4 size paper) agreed on with instructor (10%)

4 comprehension assignments in Japanese (4 x 10% = 40%)

Final Take-home Examination (20%)

Self-assessment (10%)

Depending upon the materials, students are expected to read approximately ten to twenty pages of texts every week. Reading comprehension guides will be given beforehand, but no vocabulary lists or Kanji lists will be provided.

Students are also expected to present research findings on Japan's stance in the international scenes and/or Japanese politics in class based on their research project.  Students are encouraged to discuss their research project topics with the instructor at an early stage of the course.

Entry to masters coursework program, or permission of convenor. Incompatible with JPNS3026.

No prior knowledge in International Relations and/or Politics is assumed nor required.

A high level of Japanese language ability is required.

Course materials will be prepared by the instructor and available as handouts or as an e-Brick on Wattle.

None.