Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2023 - GA 201 D100

Introduction to Japanese Civilization (3)

Class Number: 4887

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 4 – Apr 11, 2023: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 22, 2023
    Sat, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    15 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to historical and cultural perspectives covering the basic aspects of Japan: geography, history, culture, politics, economy, etc. Students with credit for ASC 201 may not take this course for further credit. Breadth-Humanities.

COURSE DETAILS:

This lecture- and tutorial-based course provides students with an introduction to selected cultural and historical perspectives on Japan from its origins to the present. The goal of the course is to learn some of the foundations of Japanese civilization, which will help to understand how Japan has developed over time and how it interacts with the world today. The main themes of the course will include: spiritual beliefs and traditions, particularly Shinto and Zen Buddhism; the changing roles of the imperial family; the development of the samurai; the impact of Western imperialism on Japanese society; the role of technology in modern Japan’s identity; the environmental legacy of natural disasters. This course does not require prior knowledge of Japanese history or society nor any fluency in Japanese.

Grading

  • Tutorial attendance and participation 20%
  • Japanese Cultural Event project (10% + 30%) 40%
  • Midterm test 20%
  • Final Exam 20%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

None; Coursepack will be provided.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html