JAPN 380: Japan: Land and People
This course introduces the language and culture of Japan through a thematic approach. Selected topics include geography, climate, population, and industry. This course is designed to develop advanced Japanese language competency and to introduce various aspects of related Japanese culture using technology and web-based materials. Taught in Japanese. (Prereq: JAPN 300 or equivalent with a C- or better)
course narrative
In this course, we looked at the geography of Japan, as well as cultural aspects of the different areas. Throughout the course, I was constantly challenged to improve my Japanese writing skills and vocabulary. With language learning it's easy to never step outside of your comfort zone and not learn new vocab that you cannot actively relate to. There is also the common sense or knowledge that citizens of the country would know, but as a foreigner you wouldn't be able to relate to that knowledge. For example, when I think of Florida I think of Disney world, alligators, and that one zombie guy. However, up until I took this course, when I thought of a specific Japanese prefecture I would have absolutely nothing that would come to mind regarding what that area is known for.
Most of our work was online in class, but I have one presentation where we had to present an area of Japan and what it's known for. The presentation can be found here
Most of our work was online in class, but I have one presentation where we had to present an area of Japan and what it's known for. The presentation can be found here