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Syllabus format 2027
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Semester2027 Winter
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CourseBusiness Topics (Management in Japanese Corporations)
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Campus LocationJF Oberlin - Shinjuku Campus
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InstructorTBD
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Instructed only by foreign languages
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Instruction LanguageEnglish
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Active Learning included
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Active Learning TypeDiscussion, DebatesGroup workPresentation
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Flipped ClassroomPracticum/FieldworkExperience
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InvestigationMock classesPBLOthers
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Course DescriptionThis course provides a comprehensive exploration of the intricate interplay between various forces that shape Japanese management and business practices. Students will delve into the social, economic, technological, and ethical factors influencing decision-making in Japanese organizations. By examining cultural dimensions and influences on behavior within Japanese companies, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how values and norms impact organizational dynamics.
Additionally, the course will equip students with strategic insights for Western organizations seeking to navigate the complexities of operating in Japan and engaging with Japanese stakeholders both domestically and globally. Through case studies and real-world examples, learners will develop practical approaches for managing cross-cultural interactions and fostering productive relationships.
Moreover, the course emphasizes the development of intercultural communication and negotiation skills essential for effective collaboration in a global business environment. By honing their capabilities in navigating differences and finding common ground, students will be prepared to succeed in intercultural settings and drive positive outcomes in diverse business contexts. The course meets for a minimum of 45 hours per two week period. Students receive 4 Oberlin University credits with a minimum grade of a D.
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Course ObjectivesTo teach Japanese Business and Management to international University students
at a University in Shinjuku Tokyo during a two-week program
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Course Schedule　※Fill in according to the number of times the class is to be held.
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Date
Details
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1st5-JanUnit 1:
Introduction of the course, sharing business experiences in cross-cultural
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Nation’s culture and Japan’s cultural characters which impact business practices
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2nd6-JanUnit 2 :
Communication style in Japan. Field work: To go field to observe behaviors of local
Japanese people.
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3rd7-JanUnit 3:
Japan’s social concepts: There are 10 social concepts which can explain business
practices and Japanese behaviors and ways of thinking. Group discussions.
Japan modernization history from “Shogun” era.
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4th8-JanUnit 4:
How the entrepreneurs in Japan developed Japan way of manufacturing
capabilities. How Japan’s social concepts worked there.
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5th11-JanUnit 5 :
Toyota Production Systems: Just-in=Time, zero defect, etc.
How foreign companies develop business with Japanese car makers.
Case Study 1/ Dealing with Cross-Cultural Stress
Experience the uncomfortable situations under the cultural gap.
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6th12-JanUnit 6:
How Japanese companies manage quality and lead time during the product development.
Case Study 2/ Dealing with Cross-Cultural Stress
Experience the uncomfortable situations under the cultural gaps.
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7th13-JanUnit 7:
B to C (business to consumer) Marketing in Japan.
Unique marketing approaches in Japan to see how to attract consumers in Japan.
Field work in the afternoon.
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8th14-JanUnit 8:
Role Play to experience a business negotiation with a virtual Japanese company.
Using a case of a Japanese company wishes to obtain promising technology from a small European start-up company.
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9th15-JanUnit 9:
Final Project to assess student's grade.
Every student is asked to do her/his presentation about what she/he learned in the course.
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Supplementary Activities　※Fill in according to the number of times the class is to be held.
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Date
Details
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1st5-Jan
Cultural self-assessment comparing Japanese business values with students’ previous experiences.
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2nd6-Jan
Communication-observation journal examining indirectness, formality, hierarchy, and nonverbal behavior.
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3rd7-Jan
Concept-mapping activity connecting Japanese social concepts with contemporary business practices.
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4th8-Jan
Entrepreneur profile examining the development of Japanese manufacturing capabilities.
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5th11-Jan
Toyota Production System exercise involving just-in-time production, quality, and waste reduction.
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6th12-Jan
Product-development simulation balancing quality, lead time, cost, and cross-cultural expectations.
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7th13-Jan
Japanese marketing analysis based on a product, advertisement, or company observed in Tokyo.
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8th14-Jan
Negotiation reflection identifying communication challenges between a Japanese company and a foreign start-up.
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9th15-Jan
Personal management action plan based on the most useful Japanese business practices studied.
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Feedback MethodCritique and Commendary in class
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Provide feedback via email, etc.
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Correct and return tests and reports
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No feedbacks
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Others(Details=>)
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TextbookThe instructor will provide class materials.
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Supplementary Reading
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Grading90-100 = A 80-89 = B 79-70 = C 60-69 = D 50 and below = F
Breakdown:
•Class Participation: 25%
•Attendance: 25%
•Assignments: 20%
•Final Project: 30%
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Contact with Instructor
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U R L
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Courses taught by faculty with practical experience
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Keywords
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Others
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