Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

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Unit Overview

Description

This unit deals with the major sociocultural and economic issues facing Japan in the context of a rapidly changing Asia–Pacific region. Over the half century since the end of World War II, Japan has been transformed from a war-devastated, barely functioning economy to a leading industrial superpower. Accompanying this process were major ramifications both within Japan and in the wider Asia–Pacific region. The unit examines how these changes in Japan, and within the wider Asian region, are affecting the internal dynamics of Japanese society, as well as influencing Japan's interactions with Asian nations. Issues discussed include social and cultural changes in post World War II Japan; how Japan defines itself in relation to Asia; the ways in which past memories are being addressed in contemporary Japan; the changing relationship with the region; and the influence and the diffusion of Japanese popular and youth culture in Asia.

Credit
6 points
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) gain an enhanced understanding of the diversity of Japanese culture and society in the context of a rapidly changing Asia–Pacific region; (2) recognise the social and cultural underpinnings of Japan and gain an appreciation of the constantly shifting dynamics of these underpinnings; (3) appreciate the significance of intra-regional and global flows of people, capital, knowledge, ideas and culture in shaping national and cultural identity in Japan and in Asia; (4) understand the basic theoretical concepts necessary for Japan- and Asia-related units in the humanities and social sciences; (5) devise their own research topic in areas related to the unit; (6) research that topic by collecting, reading and critically analysing data; (7) draw on research skills and express themselves clearly and persuasively in writing; and (8) express their ideas and appraise the ideas of others orally through active participation in tutorials.

Assessment



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Romit Dasgupta
Unit rules
Prerequisites
24 points of Level 1 units in any Arts discipline
Contact hours
lectures: 20 hours
tutorials: 9 hours
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.