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.

7. write a critical summary of chosen materials.

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

(2) Japanese-English translation of a text x 2 (5% each)            10% (Assesses outcomes 1, 6)

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

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

(5) A critical summary of a chosen material 10% (Assesses outcome 7)

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

(7) Self-assessment                                                            10%

Total                                                                               100%

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 graduate students. No background in Japanese economy is expected or required. However, graduate students have to fulfill the following prerequisite:

Students who obtained D or above in at least one of the Advanced Level Japanese Language Courses JPNS6005, JPNS6006, JPNS6007 or JPNS6008 or who demonstrated equivalent level of proficiency .

Incompatible with JPNS3027

None.

No prescribed texts.