TOKYO INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Course description and aims

This two-quarter long course is designed to give students specialist knowledge in their field of study as well as basicknowledge in a broader area, with a focus on research assignments that are suggested by the academic supervisor(assignments may be decided through discussions with the academic supervisor). The students will incorporate thisknowledge into their own research themes to carry out research, participate in academic discussions, and givepresentations of their findings.
The aims of the abovementioned process are not only to develop the students’ skills in such areas as literature searchand analysis, mapping techniques, and techniques for collecting, analyzing, and assessing data, but also to acquirelinguistic proficiency and comprehension skills as well as the ability to present ideas and arguments effectively inacademic writing and through discussions and presentations.Graduate education at Tokyo Tech is comprised of coursework education based on a structured curriculum andlaboratory work characterized by individualized instruction. Research Seminar courses are central to the laboratory-based education, and active learning is strongly encouraged. By enrolling in Research Seminar courses and pursuingresearch activities, students are expected to develop expertise in their field of study and gain skills that are sought afterby society.

Student learning outcomes

Students will acquire the following abilities in stages by completing Research Seminar 1-4:
1) Ability to utilize specialist knowledge to solve practical problem of research, creation and technology development in architecture and building engineering
2) Ability to make a profound study of architecture and building engineering
3) Ability to acquire expertise in areas outside the field of architecture and building engineering and connect it to creative research ideas
4) Ability to systematize research, creation and technology development with awareness of the trends in them and an international grasp of the field
5) Basic international communication skills

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 supervisor’s laboratory. The course schedule will be determined through discussionsheld among students and the academic supervisor. In some cases, multiple laboratories may choose to hold classesjointly. 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, willbe announced prior to the start of the course.

Related courses

• 400-level graduate major courses in Architecture and Building Engineering

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

1. Students must be a member of one of the laboratories in the Department of Architecture and Building Engineering.
2. Students must have completed the 200- and 300-level basic courses offered by the Architecture and Building Engineering undergraduate major or have equivalent knowledge.