(AY2017/2018, Sem 1) NUS JS1101E : Introduction to Japanese Studies Review

Module Title: Introduction to Japanese Studies
Module Code: JS1101E
Taken in AY2017/2018, Semester 1.
Lecturer: Lim Beng Choo (Week 1 to 6) and Chris McMorran (Week 7 to 12)

Tutor: Ms Itsuko Tanaka

Components	Percentage	Grade
Tutorial participation	10%	-
Short in-class writing and IVLE posting	10%	-
Mid-term test	20%	-
Group project	30%	B-
Finals	30%	-

Final Grade: A-

What is it about?

     The module is neatly splitted into 2 parts -- pre-modern Japan (spanning from Naro period to Edo period) and modern Japan with Professor Lim covering the former and Professor McMorran covering the latter. Professor Lim's lectures can be a little bit dry though the content she teaches is interesting. On the other hand, Professor McMorran is a great lecturer and tries his best to engage the students as and when he can. You can tell how passionate he is towards Japanese Studies through his lectures which cover topics such as Japan's current social structure and norms, Japan's education system.... 

     Students are mainly assessed through Mid-term test, Group Project and Finals. Mid-term test takes up 20% and covers topics taught by Professor Lim. Though only 20 MCQs are tested, the questions are tricky -- testing on very small details taught in lectures. The Group Project takes up 30% and requires students to write a research paper on any topic relating to Japan. Finals takes up 30% and covers topic taught by Professor McMorran. 30 MCQs are tested and most of the question comes from the readings. Finals is easy IF you read the readings.

Review

     I didn't study much for the mid-terms because I took the professor's word when she said that she won't test on anything specific but just general happenings. Trust me, the questions were far from "general happenings". In addition, my project work was just a B- as my group composes of all year-one and we know nothing about writing academic paper. However, I managed to pull up my overall grade to an A- by studying hard for the finals.

     Readings could be a bit long, reaching 20+ pages for some weeks. However, reading them is a must for exams and they are easy IF you read the readings.

     Overall, this is an interesting module and I got to see a different side of Japan through the module. I would recommend one to take it to clear their ASIAN studies basket (for FASS students) or as an unrestricted electives (for other faculties members). For returning students, just put in a bit more effort and you can secure an A- easily (as a lot of freshman are out to S/U this module).

Ratings

3.8/5