PROGRAM SUMMARY

The focus of this Abroad is a study of modern Japanese society with an emphasis on the culture, history, language, and business of Japan. In particular, students will focus on the key events and forces which have shaped Japan's history and culture, and define its society today. They will also explore the unique characteristics of Japan's economy and business practices which are at the core of Japan's postwar identity. In general, students will focus on two main issues: 1) What is the unique blend of East and West that constitutes Japanese society? 2) How are the various members of Japanese society (government, business, the media, families, schools, citizens, etc.) responding to the demands for change brought on by globalization? In essence, this Abroad offers a cross-disciplinary study of Japanese society, -- its traditions, present-day characteristics, and future changes.

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PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Principia Abroad in Japan will be directed by Linda A. Bohaker, Assistant Professor of Business Administration. Ms. Bohaker holds two masters degrees, one in international business and one in Japanese studies. She has studied Japanese language and culture extensively, and has lived, studied, and worked in Japan. She served as assistant faculty on Principia's Hawaii Field Program during December Break, 1997, and as the Program Director of the 1998 Principia Abroad to Japan. Ms. Bohaker will be assisted by a program resident counselor, whose name will be announced at a later date.

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ACADEMICS

A total of fifteen (15) quarter hours will be earned on this Abroad. The following three (3) courses will be required of all students enrolled in this program:

History 220: Civilization: Japan

Quarter Hours: 5 Letter Code: possibly D, still to be confirmed

The application of historical method to the observation, description, and survey of the Japanese culture.

F LANG 100: Elementary Japanese

Quarter Hours: 5 Letter Code: none

An introduction to the Japanese language by focusing on listening, speaking, reading, and writing within a cultural context.

BUS AD 281: Japanese Business and Society

Quarter Hours: 5 Letter Code: none

An overview of Japan's postwar economic development and business practices. An emphasis will be placed on the role business has played in shaping and defining Japanese society, as well as how various members of Japanese society (government, business, the media, schools, families) are responding to the demands for societal change brought on by globalization.