TOKYO INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Course description and aims

This course broaches the topic of what the role of the native language is, and the meaning of history is for scientists and engineers. Language isn't just a communication tool, but also relates fundamentally to thought. When people think deeply, they think in their native languages. Japan is one of the few countries in which students can receive a graduate level education in their native languages. This dates back to the beginning of the Meiji period, when scholars such as Amane Nishi translated practically all Western academic terminology into Japanese, integrating them into the Japanese vocabulary. The flip side of that is the low level of English in Japan.
This course debates the pros and cons in details.
Many historical topics tend to come up when chatting with Western intellectuals. History is the pinnacle of education to them. History doesn't amount to just listing off facts, but rather topics are picked across space and time, and historical perspectives are explored.
This course expects students to thoroughly discuss what history is, and whether it should be written from a modern perspective, or from the contemporary perspective. Students will also be asked about their thoughts on the historical position of science and technology, and where it is heading.

Student learning outcomes

This is a discussion program. Students can change their opinions in the course. They are asked to write up their (tentative) summary of the discussion.

Keywords

Discussion, Dialogue, Science and technology, History, Mother language

Competencies that will be developed

Class flow

Students will use active learning equipment (internet access required), bring along their PC, and sit at tables in groups of 5. The instructor will talk about the topic for the first 15 minutes, and then after a 5 minute Q&A, students will debate in groups for 20 minutes. For the next 20 minutes each table will present a summary by their representative, followed by a Q&A. For the remaining time, students will organize their resume onto an A4 sheet. Students should think about it thoroughly, giving it due weight. This should all be organized into an essay and submitted at the end of class.
The target class size is 20 students or less. Students may be chosen by lottery, depending on the circumstances.

Course schedule/Required learning

Textbook(s)

None.

Reference books, course materials, etc.

「英語化は愚民化」　施光恒著（集英社）、E.H. カー著「歴史とは何か」（岩波）

Assessment criteria and methods

Based on class attendance (50%) and assignments submitted (50%)

Related courses

• None.

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

None.

Contact information (e-mail and phone)    Notice : Please replace from "[at]" to "@"(half-width character).

ahosoya.bongo[at]gmail.com、 cc;　iidpinfo[at]jim.titech.ac.jp
(Indicate the name and affiliation)

Office hours

To make an appointment by e-mail.