This module develops and extends students’ knowledge and understanding of Japanese history and society through an examination of memory and symbols in Japan. In the first semester, we examine how aspects of Japan can be studied through the use of symbols. Building upon the book “Empire of Signs” by Roland Barthes, a range of symbols will be analysed and considered in relation to their usage in Japan and their broader understanding

1. Apply a high level of understanding of Japanese culture and society.
2. Critically analyse how the Asia-Pacific War is remembered in various popular media in contemporary Japan.
3. Compare and contrast approaches to memory making in contemporary Japan
4. Articulate independent critical responses to academic and cultural ‘texts’ (broadly understood) produced in Japanese and in English.
5. Articulate arguments coherently orally and in writing.

The module will be delivered through a range of interactive teaching sessions supplemented by online teaching and learning activities and materials – and may include, where relevant, asynchronous materials such as lecture recordings. Full details on the delivery mode of this module will be available on Learning Central at the start of the academic year – and may be, in part, determined by Welsh Government and Public Health Wales guidance.  

Seminars are based around class discussion, in which students will develop and explore ideas formulated during independent study of set texts and additional research of the key ideas outlined in lectures. This will facilitate students’ capacity to develop independent research skills and the ability to work effectively in small and large groups, as outlined in the learning outcomes.

• Critical reading skills
• Advanced Japanese reading skills
• Oral presentation skills
• Leading and engaging in discussion and debate
• Analytical writing skills
• Research and bibliographic skills

The method(s) of assessing the learning outcomes for this module are set out in the Assessment Table, which also contains the weightings of each assessment component.

Mapping of Assessments to Intended Learning Outcomes

The Coursework Project assesses all Learning Outcomes (1-5)

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR REASSESSMENT IN THIS MODULE:

Any student failing the module will be required to resubmit a Courseowrk Project (100%), for a maximum of 40%. The length and method will be the same as the original assessment.

• Empire of Signs
• Signs and Semiotics
• Studying Japan
• Maps
• Memorials
• Transportation and Contents Tourism
• Kamon
• The Shadow of the Mushroom Cloud