Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

The socioeconomic conditions in Japan today are characterised by affluence, consumerism, growing individualism and a declining birth rate juxtaposed with economic slowdown, major employment restructuring and a rapidly ageing society. These have prompted a general questioning of many of the values and institutions that underpinned the industrial-capitalist ideology of post World War II Japan. In the process the ways in which individuals define themselves and relate to society have been shifting significantly. In the context of these shifts, this unit examines the ways in which identities based on the self, gender, sexuality, class, region and nation are being questioned, re-appraised and re-negotiated in contemporary Japan. Topics covered include changing notions of 'Japanese' through the growing visibility of cultural and ethnic diversity, generational shifts in values and behaviour patterns, changing gender roles and identities, and the emergence of identities defined by sexualities.

Credit
6 points
Outcomes

Students are able to have a theoretical understanding of the concept of 'identity' and its significance to our everyday lives; critically analyse the construction of 'Japanese' national identity; understand the basic theoretical concepts necessary for Japan- and Asia-related units in the humanities and social sciences; devise their own research topic in areas related to the unit; research that topic by collecting, reading and critically analysing data; draw on research skills and express themselves clearly and persuasively in writing; and 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
  • 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.