Japanese Language and Culture

Why should I take this Trinity Elective?

Less than a quarter of the world speaks English, meaning that learning another language opens doors to new cultures, perspectives, and opportunities. Japanese is a language rich in tradition, history, and modern global influence. Whether you are a complete beginner or have some prior knowledge, this Trinity Elective allows you to develop essential communication skills while exploring a key cultural topic in its linguistic context.

Learning Japanese enhances critical thinking, memory, and intercultural awareness, helping you become a more confident global citizen. It also provides transferable skills valued in academic and professional settings, particularly in international relations, business, and cultural exchange.

Beginner Level: Japanese Language and Culture

This module is designed for complete beginners with no prior knowledge of Japanese. You will develop a foundation in spoken communication and writing systems (hiragana and katakana) while engaging with a key cultural theme.

What will I learn?

• Communicate effectively at a beginner’s level (CEFR A1).
• Develop linguistic and intercultural skills through interactive learning.
• Explore a contemporary cultural issue within a Japanese-speaking context.
• Learn the basics of hiragana and katakana.

What will I do?

• Attend 9 x 2-hour face-to-face language classes, focusing on speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
• Engage in weekly online quizzes and activities to reinforce learning.
• Work in teams to complete collaborative, interactive tasks in class.
• Prepare and deliver a Pecha Kucha-style presentation on a cultural topic.

How will this be delivered?

• 18 contact hours of face-to-face classes.
• 82 hours of self-directed activities, including online tasks, reading, and assessment preparation.

How will this be assessed?

• 15% Language quizzes assessing progress.
• 35% Participation in online discussions on cultural and linguistic themes.
• 15% Reflective learning journal tracking your learning experience.
• 35% Pre-recorded Pecha Kucha presentation and written script analyzing a cultural issue.

Post-Beginner Level: Japanese Language and Culture

This module is designed for students who already have some foundational knowledge of Japanese (e.g., Leaving Certificate level or equivalent, A1+ CEFR). It aims to strengthen your language skills, build confidence in spoken and written communication, and introduce kanji while exploring cultural topics.

What will I learn?

• Communicate effectively at a post-beginner’s level (CEFR A1+).
• Expand your knowledge of Japanese writing systems (hiragana, katakana, and kanji).
• Develop linguistic competence in expressing preferences, making plans, and describing experiences.
• Explore cultural identity and contemporary Japanese societal themes.

What will I do?

• Attend 9 x 2-hour face-to-face classes focusing on improving fluency.
• Engage with online quizzes, discussion boards, and cultural reflections.
• Prepare a Pecha Kucha-style presentation on a cultural topic related to Japan.

How will this be delivered?

• 18 contact hours of face-to-face classes.
• 82 hours of self-directed learning, including Blackboard activities, reading, and assessment preparation.

How will this be assessed?

• 15% Language quizzes to test proficiency.
• 35% Online participation in cultural discussions.
• 15% Reflective learning journal documenting your language-learning progress.
• 35% Pre-recorded Pecha Kucha presentation and written script analyzing a cultural issue.

Who can take these Trinity Electives?

Both electives are open to any eligible student, with:

• Beginner Level (A1) available for complete beginners with no prior knowledge of Japanese.
• Post-Beginner Level (A1+) available for students who have already studied basic Japanese (e.g., Leaving Certificate, JLPT N5, or equivalent).

PLEASE NOTE:

• You can only select either the Beginner or Post-Beginner level, not both.
• These electives are not traditional language courses and include a significant focus on Japanese culture and society.
• Visiting students should confirm with their home university whether these modules fulfill language credit requirements before enrolling.
• Language Placement: Applications will be screened after enrollment to ensure students are placed in the correct module for their proficiency level. Students who enroll in a module that does not match their proficiency will be reassigned to another elective with available places.

* Please note that assessment methods, assessment weightings and amount of contact hours are subject to change by the module coordinator. You can confirm all assessment details and expected contact hours with the module coordinator upon starting the elective.