JAPN-392 Issues in Acquisition of Japanese

JAPN-392 Issues in Acquisition of Japanese

Professor Mori

This course introduces major issues and relevant theories in the acquisition of Japanese in order to obtain a better understanding of first and second language acquisition processes. Issues are selected on the basis on the following questions: (a) What are major differences between acquiring Japanese as a first language and a second/foreign language? (b) How does knowledge of a first language influence learning of Japanese? (c) Are there any aspects that differentiate the acquisition of Japanese from that of other languages? If so, what are they?, and (d) How is Japanese taught as a second/foreign language in classroom settings and what effects does instruction have? The course discusses the traditional and current theories of language acquisition and critically examines recent studies on the acquisition of Japanese to determine the validity of the theories. Students are expected to obtain insights into the issues in Japanese acquisition research, formulate research questions, and possibly design and conduct a study. Rigorous participation in class discussion, oral report, written assignments, data collection and analysis, and term project/paper are required. Conducted in English. This course satisfies one semester of the College's social science general education requirement.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: None

Other academic years
There is information about this course number in other academic years:

• 2004-2005
• 2005-2006
• 2007-2008

More information
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