Theme: Tourism and Regional Revitalization
May 13-17 Coursework at NUS
May 18-28 Study in Japan (tentative, could return as late as May 31)
Japan’s postwar economic miracle was not experienced evenly. Industrial pollution, wasteful construction projects, and rural depopulation damaged human health and the physical landscape of many regions around the country.
Two decades after the collapse of the bubble economy, many places continue to struggle. However, there is hope, with many people fighting to revitalize their communities in the face of economic and demographic problems.
In this module students investigate the revitalization efforts of a handful of communities in Kumamoto Prefecture, particularly through tourism. Students will meet government officials, citizens, and business owners who care deeply about their communities and strive to develop ways to share the places they love with tourists.
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In order to apply, please download the application here (JS Field Study 2013) and return it by Friday, 8 Feb at 5:00pm.
Here are some FAQs about the program:
- Is the schedule on the flier fixed? Answer: Yes; however, issues might arise that could push the trip back by several days.
- Is the module finished on 28 May? Answer: No. You will still need to be available to compete parts of the module (final paper, presentation) as late as 7 June.
- The flier says the trip will cost up to $1500. What does this mean, and how likely is it to cost less? Answer: $1500 is an estimate based on current prices and exchange rates, as well as due to a generous contribution from the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Singapore). The cost might change, although the most likely scenario is for it to be less. Therefore, you will need to commit to the program and prepare to contribute up to $1500 before we know the results. It is very likely that you will have to spend less than $1500.
- What does the $1500 cover? Answer: International airfare, domestic transportation (train, bus, taxi), overnight accommodations, entrance fees, and most meals. Items not covered include a few meals, one optional excursion, travel insurance, any personal shopping, and NUS credit fees.
- Does the $1500 cover the cost of the NUS credits? Answer: No, you will have to register for the module and pay for the credits prior to our departure.
- How many credits is the module worth? Answer: 4
- Do the credits count toward the JS major? Answer: Yes. The module counts toward the 3000-level requirement for the major. This makes it ideal for all students, especially those who will do (or have done) exchange. Mapping 2000-level modules from Japanese universities is easy, but we do not normally map 3000-level modules. Therefore, majors and minors need to take 3000-level modules at NUS.
- I am about to graduate and do not need the credits. Do I have to take the module for credit? Answer: Yes. Only students enrolled in the module for credit can participate in the field study. However, please note that if you attend the field study you WILL NOT be eligible to attend commencement in July. Because you are attending a summer program, your degree will not be conferred until September.
- What is the difficulty level and how will the module be assessed? Answer: The module is standard for a 3000-level JS module. Marks will be based on participation, several presentations (group and individual), several on-site field exercises, and several written assignments. You can see some of the written assignments on this blog.
- What comes after the application? Answer: there will be a group interview in February or early March. Successful applicants should know the results soon after the interview.
- Can I participate as a year 1 student? Answer: Yes. You can apply, and you will be considered. Priority will be given to students who show maturity (at whatever age) and show they can handle the stresses of a homestay and an intensive 3000-level module.
- How much Japanese do I need to participate? Answer: As indicated on the flier, priority will be given to students with a certain level of proficiency, which can be shown either through modules completed, JLPT certification, or self-study. You will need to read some government documents and tourist pamphlets, survive in a homestay, take part in student exchange, and speak to strangers here and there. Most importantly, you have to be willing to make mistakes and keep trying!