Japan Studies IVA

This course examines how Japan engages with the international community through the perspectives of International Relations theory and global governance. Students learn basic IR theories and research methods before analyzing Japan’s foreign policy responses to global issues such as peacekeeping, peacebuilding, human security, disaster risk reduction, and geopolitics. Through academic readings, policy documents, guest lectures, and presentations, students develop critical reading, analytical, and academic communication skills in English.

By the end of this course, students will understand core International Relations theories and basic research methods and be able to critically analyze Japan’s foreign policy and international cooperation. Students will enhance the ability to read academic and policy texts, articulate informed arguments, and communicate their ideas clearly in English.

Students are expected to participate in group discussions, two Three-Minute Talks, a midterm presentation, and a final presentation. Group discussions are conducted at the end of each class based on the proposed agenda related to the week’s topic. A Three-Minute Talk is a brief oral presentation in which a student introduces and explains an article selected from the reading list.

The above schedule is a tentative plan.

Students will get comment on their presentations from the lecturer.

Read assigned articles prior to class. Prepare for Three-minute Talk, discussions in class, a midterm presentation, and a final presentation. Self-studying hours: about 4 hours per class.

1回の授業につき予習・復習あわせて最低4時間の学修が必要となります。
「授業時間外の学修（予習・復習等）」に明記されている想定学修時間の合計が4時間を上回っている場合は、その学修時間を必要とします。

・Class participation (How actively a student contributes to discussions in class and group discussions) = 15%
・Three-minute Talk (10%) × two times = 20%
・Midterm Presentation: Submission of presentation material (15%) + Oral Presentation (10%) = 25%
・Final Presentation: Submission of presentation material (20%) + Oral Presentation (20%) = 40%

＊The reading list I and II will be distributed on Week 1 and Week 6 respectively.

＜教科書不要科目＞

This course consists of lectures using audio materials, group discussions and presentations, and participation in quick surveys. Active participation such as sharing your thoughts, experiences, and outputs is highly encouraged to make each class interactive!