This is a high level advanced language course (on the same level as Advanced Readings in Japanese History, Advanced Readings in Science and Technology, Advanced Readings in Japanese: International Relations and Politics and Advanced Readings in Japanese Law; 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 Japanese economy. Third, it improves the students’ ability to read Japanese texts related to economy, finance and business and to express their opinions through discussions in class.

Using writings on Japanese economy, finance and business, which are written in contemporary language, the course introduces students to both the basic conceptual terminology in the field of economy, finance and business, and to the major happenings in Japanese economy and how these relate to more recent social and political issues. The topics may cover a variety of historical periods, ranging from feudal society economy to modern economy, from a Japanese way of conducting business to its relevance to international economy, from traditional work ethics to modern employment trends.

By the conclusion of the course, students should be able to

1. read authentic materials comfortably and comprehend the content of each material.

2. write short essays in Japanese on a given topic related to economy.

3. summarise the content of materials in Japanese.

4. conduct an independent research using primary source materials, present the research outcome in class and write a short paper based on the research.

5. express their opinions in Japanese on a given topic for discussion in class.

6. explain most of the topics covered throughout the course both in speaking and writing.

(1) Reading comprehension assignment x 4  (5% each) 20% (Assesses outcomes 1, 2, 3, 6)

(2) Japanese-English translation of a text  10% (Assesses outcomes 1, 6)

(3) Presentation of a project  15% (Assesses outcomes 4)

(4) Project paper based on the presentation  15% (Assesses outcomes 4, 5)

(5) Final take home examination 30% (Assesses outcomes 1, 2, 3, 6)

(6) Self-assessment 10%

Total of 35 contact hours of seminars, with an additional total of 70 hours reading expected in preparation for seminars.

This course is available to both undergraduate and graduate students. No background in Japanese economy is expected or required. However, undergraduates have to fulfill the following prerequisites:

Students mus have obtained a Distinction or above in at least one of the Advanced Level Japanese Language Courses JPNS3005, JPNS3006, JPNS3007 or JPNS3008.

JPNS6027