Japan and the World: Historical and Cultural Developments (5th Century – Present)

Explore Japan through its history, arts, and literature. With an emphasis on Japan post-1853, this online course integrates an overview of Japanese history and culture with extensive consideration of the best pedagogical approaches to translate such learning into effective teaching. We will examine rich primary and secondary sources that explore Japan’s geographic features, belief systems, feudal and contemporary government systems, artistic traditions, and the ways in which Japan has interacted with the world. Drawing on course content and innovative Web 2.0 tools, you will have the opportunity to construct curricular materials for use in your own classroom.

This course will be offered completely online and will require a basic comfort level and interest in the use of computer technology as a medium for learning. The time for completing each week’s work is approximately 3-5 hours.