Course Name Year Term Period Faculty / Graduate School All Instructors Credits
50962:[2025 Spring]Contemporary Issues in Policy Science 1 （EPS-A） (A) 2025 Spring Tue2 College　Of　Policy　Science OKADA KIMIKO 2

Campus

OIC

Class Venue

AS468

Language

English

Course Outline and Method

This is a survey course of contemporary issues related to policy science with emphasis on academic discussion skills. A variety of current issues will be chosen by the instructor related to topics such as economics, the environment, human rights, politics, health, culture, media, globalization, education, gender and society to increase students’ basic local, regional and global knowledge, as well as critical thinking and understanding. Students will also improve their reading and listening by preparing materials for learning, as well as practice writing of short reports/essays in English. Students will conduct supplementary research on the topics studied. This class will be conducted 100% in English and will be very useful for students interested in enrolling in a CRPS course, studying abroad, or preparing for a field research abroad project in their second academic year.

Student Attainment Objectives

The aims of this course are to:
- improve communicative competency and confidence in speaking English - improve listening, reading and writing skills in English
- increase English vocabulary
- learn how to analyse and compare policies and practices across nations - gain critical thinking and analytical skills
- learn how to build logical arguments

Recommended Preparatory Course

Course Schedule

Lecture/Instructor（When there are multiple instructors) Theme
Keyword, References and Supplementary Information
1

Introduction

- Meeting your classmates and instructor
- Introduction to course content, methods, evaluation - More detailed syllabus given in first class
- Discussion of expectations

【＋R授業】＋R授業については各担当者がVODを作成、もしくは他の双方向性が確保できる方法で実施します。実施内容及び方法については、初回授業で担当者が案内します。

2-12

Class discussion

Interactive discussion-based classes in English, focusing on a variety of current issues; students may also practice friendly debate-skills; and prepare, practice and perform student presentations

13-14

Presentation

Students will give a class presentation on a topic of their choice

Class Format

14 classes on Face to Face basis. However, Media-based classes might be conducted as necessary.

Recommendations for Private Study

Students should practice listening, speaking, reading and writing in English as much as possible. Students should read and listen to the news in English to be aware of current issues.

Grade Evaluation Method

Kind Percentage Grading Criteria etc.
Final Examination (Written)

Report Examination
(A report to be submitted by the unified deadline)

Exams and/or Reports other than those stated above, and Continuous Assessment　
(Evaluation of Everyday Performance in Class)		 100

Continuous Assessments may be based on:
- Participation and preparation - Homework assignments
- Final assignments

Grade Evaluation Method （Note）

The instructor will give a more detailed course outline in the first week of class including topics for discussion, evaluation criteria and learning methods.

Advice to Students on Study and Research Methods

If you do not understand the teacher’s instructions make sure you ask for clarification. Teachers want to support their students whenever and however they can. Make sure you are prepared for each class but if for some reason you cannot do your homework please attend class anyway. The time you spend in the class is very important to your learning and improving.

Textbooks

Textbooks （Frequency of Use, Note）

Reference Books

Reference Books （Frequency of Use, Note）

Web Pages for Reference

How to Communicate with the Instructor In and Out of Class(Including Instructor Contact Information)

Learning Management System （manaba+R）

Other Comments

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URL:https://secure.ritsumei.ac.jp/students/pathways-future/course/curriculum.html/