TOKYO INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Course description and aims

This course is designed for doctoral students to give them specialist knowledge in their field of study as well as basic knowledge in broad areas with a focus on research assignments suggested by the academic supervisor (assignments may be decided through discussions with the academic supervisor). Students will incorporate the gained knowledge into their own research, participate in academic discussions, and give presentations of their findings.
The aims of the course are not only to develop the students' skills such as literature search and analysis, and techniques for collecting, analyzing, and assessing data, but also to acquire linguistic proficiency and comprehension as well as the ability to present ideas and arguments effectively in academic writings and through discussions and presentations.
Graduate education at Tokyo Tech is comprised of coursework education based on a structured curriculum and laboratory work characterized by individualized instruction. Research Seminar course is central to the laboratory based education, and active learning is strongly encouraged. By enrolling in Research Seminar courses and pursuing research activities, students are expected to develop expertise in their fields of study and gain skills necessary in the real society.

Student learning outcomes

Students will acquire the following by completing Research Seminar V to X:
1) Theoretical understanding of the fundamentals of engineering necessary for professional practices and research.
2) Technical skills and knowledge required for cutting-edge research in their fields of civil engineering, and the ability to apply them to practical use.
3) Creativity required for producing and communicating new ideas and knowledge.
4) Understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity, necessary for the international practices in civil engineering.
5) Communication and leadership skills needed for the international practices in civil engineering.

Keywords

Literature search, data collection, data analysis, academic-paper writing, presentation training, discussion training,
laboratory-based education, coursework

Competencies that will be developed

Class flow

Classes are held at the academic supervisors' laboratories. The course schedule will be determined through discussions with the academic supervisors. In some cases, multiple laboratories may choose to hold joint classes. Some laboratories might hold classes in English. Check with your academic supervisor.

Course schedule/Required learning

Textbook(s)

Specified by the academic supervisor as necessary.

Reference books, course materials, etc.

Specified by the academic supervisor as necessary.

Assessment criteria and methods

Specifics of the assessment criteria and methods, which are in accordance with the student learning outcomes 1)–5), will
be announced prior to the start of the course.

Related courses

• None

Prerequisites (i.e., required knowledge, skills, courses, etc.)

Students must be a member of one of the laboratories.