Japanese is a major Asian language and its importance to Australia and the Asia-Pacific region is recognised in relation to international trade, diplomatic relations and international politics. The Australia in the Asian Century White Paper recognises the need for Australia to become more Asia literate by broadening and deepening our understanding of Asian cultures and languages. These capabilities, including Japanese language and cultural study are necessary to build stronger connections, partnerships and understanding across the region. Creating knowledge and capabilities and expanding relationships with Japan and Japanese people has become a national priority.
Prerequisite(s)
Only Japanese 1A has no prerequisites. The prerequisites for proceeding to Japanese 1B, 2B, 3B and Advanced Language Study are respectively Japanese 1A, 2A and 3A. LANG 1034 Japanese 1B (or equivalent) is the prerequisite for enrolment in Asian Languages In-Country.
Assumed Knowledge
Students who have completed the beginners' stream (1A and 1B) or have studied Japanese at Stage 2 level of the SACE certificate or equivalent must enrol in Japanese 2A.
Japanese is available as a major (36 units), sub-major (27 units) and a minor (18 units) to both beginners and continuing students. To complete a major/sub-major/minor, students normally enrol in Japanese 1A and 1B in their first year.
Students who can demonstrate prior learning/experience in Japanese language, may be eligible to commence their studies at 2A. Students may be required to attend an interview and/or sit for a placement test as determined by the program director.
LANG 2039 Asian Languages In-Country is studied in Japan, in a tertiary institution specialising in the teaching of Japanese to foreigners, with airfares, accommodation and other in-country costs borne by the student. Eligible students can apply for scholarships through the coordinator of the course and through the International Office.
Successful completion of LANG 2039 Asian Languages In-Country does not automatically permit students to bypass enrolment in Japanese courses at the subsequent level. That is to say, on completion of Asian Languages In-Country a student would not automatically move from Japanese 1B to Japanese 3A, bypassing 2A/2B. However, students may apply for advanced placement if they have achieved high scores, ie. Distinction or above, in Asian Languages In-Country. Even if a student does not achieve advanced placement however, Asian Languages In-Country will provide the opportunity to improve proficiency levels and grades, and gain credit for an approved immersion experience.
Students of Asian languages may include a study abroad experience, usually after completion of first year. LANG 2039 Asian Languages In-Country is studied in a country that is appropriate for the target language. Students intending to complete a study abroad semester need to negotiate the integration of this within their program study plan, consulting with the program director. LANG 2039 Asian Languages In-Country is studied as an Intermediate course.
A major consists of 8 courses (36 units), two courses of which must be Level 1 (Introductory), two courses of which must be at Level 2 (Intermediate), two courses of which must be at Level 3 (Advanced) and one 9 unit course at Level 3 (Advanced).
A sub-major consists of 6 courses (27 units), two courses of which must be Level 1 (Introductory), two courses of which must be at Level 2 (Intermediate), two courses of which must be at Level 3 (Advanced).
A minor consists of 4 courses (18 units), two courses of which must be Level 1 (Introductory), two courses of which must be at Level 2 (Intermediate).
Students intending to apply for the Master of Teaching (Secondary) with Languages as a Learning Area must complete a minimum of six courses or equivalent for a Major Learning Area, or four courses or equivalent for a Minor Learning Area. Language courses must be completed in sequence. For students studying Asian Languages, LANG 2039 Asian Languages In-Country may be studied as an alternative to Level 3 (Advanced) courses (3A and 3B) in the Major Learning Area. Intending applicants for the Master of Teaching (Secondary) must have both a Major and a Minor Learning Area to qualify for entry. Students should consult with their Program Director for a schedule of recommended courses.