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.
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.
Discussion, Dialogue, Science and technology, History, Mother language
Specialist skills | ✔ Intercultural skills | ✔ Communication skills | ✔ Critical thinking skills | Practical and/or problem-solving skills |
In the first half, think about the language as a means of communication in research and education.
As an example, focus on the way of communication in research preparation and conference presentation.
In the second half, discuss the role of language as a means of thinking in line with the actual situation of research. We also
(Number restriction: 5 people x 6 table = 30 people, language used: Japanese)
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 30 students or less.In case of exceeding the capacity, faculty members will select selections taking account of the students' specialty.
Course schedule | Required learning | |
---|---|---|
Class 1 | Language as a means of communication (1) Discussion | discussion |
Class 2 | Same (2) Summary of discussion | Writing up a summary of the debate |
Class 3 | Language as means of thinking (1) Discussion | discussion |
Class 4 | Same (2) Conclusion and writing | Writing up a summary of the debate |
None.
(1) 白川英樹、 「日本語で学び、考える科学」(読売新聞、論点2-16-2.118)
(2) Y.N.Harari, “Sapiens; A Brief History of Humankind” (Wintage)
Part One: The Cognitive Revolution
Based on class attendance and assignments submitted
None.
ahosoya.bongo[at]gmail.com、 cc; iidpinfo[at]jim.titech.ac.jp
(Indicate the name and affiliation)
To make an appointment by e-mail.
Hosoya: 13: 30 ~
Hatori: Weekdays 13: 30 ~