BS2595: Modern Japanese Society
| School | Cardiff Business School |
| Department Code | CARBS |
| Module Code | BS2595 |
| External Subject Code | T230 |
| Number of Credits | 20 |
| Level | L5 |
| Language of Delivery | English |
| Module Leader | Dr Christopher Hood |
| Semester | Double Semester |
| Academic Year | 2013/4 |
Outline Description of Module
The aim of the module is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Japan’s modern political, economic, educational and social systems, following on from the first year modules.
On completion of the module a student should be able to
A Knowledge and Understanding:
- identify the key aspects of economic, political, educational and social change in Japan in the Post-War period.
- illustrate and compare the major differences between Japanese society and society in other developed nations.
B Intellectual Skills:
- appreciate and interpret information about Japan provided in lectures.
- carry out independent reading to consolidate and supplement information provided in lectures.
C Discipline Specific Skills:
- take part in and lead discussion on various aspects of modern Japan
- to produce written work of a high standard, presenting both description and analysis.
- independently to find sources of published information and data about Japan, and to interpret and digest this information.
D Transferable Skills:
- absorb information provided in class, and supplement this with independent reading.
- appreciate the different approaches and techniques used in academic studies.
- have an international perspective in analysing information.
How the module will be delivered
Lectures will focus upon providing the important – but by no means exclusive – information relevant to that week’s subject. Students will be expected to present and lead discussions on these issues.
Indicative study hours: 200
How the module will be assessed
The formal assessment is designed to cover the learning outcomes for the module, to test skill development, and test the student’s understanding of Japan and Japanese society.
Informal assessment is provided through discussion in classes and provides an ongoing mechanism for assessing the extent to which students are meeting the module’s learning outcomes.
Assessment Breakdown
| Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Assessment | 35 | Coursework (Essay) | N/A |
| Written Assessment | 30 | Presentation | N/A |
| Written Assessment | 35 | Interview | N/A |
Syllabus content
The syllabus will include lectures on a variety of topics relevant to the understanding of Japan today.
Essential Reading and Resource List
Hendry, J., 2003, Understanding Japanese Society, London: Routledge
Hood, C.P., 2001, Japanese Educational Reform: Nakasone’s Legacy, London: Routledge
Hood, C.P., 2006, Shinkansen – From Bullet Train to Symbol of Modern Japan, London: Routledge
Hood, C.P., 2011, Dealing with Disaster in Japan: Responses to the Flight JL123 Crash, London: Routledge.
Kingston, J., 2001, Japanin Transformation, 1952-2000, Harlow: Pearson
Preston, P.W., 2000, Understanding Modern Japan, London: Sage Publications
Sugimoto, Y, 1997, An Introduction to Japanese Society, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.