Course Name Year Term Period Faculty / Graduate School All Instructors Credits
50569:[2025 Spring]The Language of Policy Science (P) 2025 Spring Thu2 College　Of　Policy　Science HICKS KIMBERLEY ANNE 2

Campus

OIC

Class Venue

AS465

Language

English

Course Outline and Method

 The language we use influences how we represent and interpret problems, as well as how we approach problems and research. The more articulate we are the better we are able to not only express our ideas but also become much more adept at influencing our audience. This practical skills-based course focuses on the fundamental ‘language’ and logic needed to be successful in the Interdisciplinary study of policy science and academics in general. By focusing on how we articulate and present our ideas and formulate the logic of our arguments, the course aims to enhance academic expression increasing your ability to use specialized phraseology, vocabulary, grammatical structure, and rhetorical patterns. The instruction method uses examples from research article writings, skills exercises and in-class discussion and peer feedback.

Student Attainment Objectives

• Increase your ability to use specialized academic phraseology, vocabulary, grammatical structures, and rhetorical patterns
• Improve your academic writing and communication accuracy
• Learn how to develop your own “voice” in your writing
• Build argumentation skills
• Gain skills and practice in applied critical thinking

Recommended Preparatory Course

Introduction to Academic Research

Course Schedule

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

Introduction to course; more detailed syllabus given in first class; explanation of assignments, evaluation, teaching methods, etc.

What is meant by Language of Policy Science?
Preview of key themes in the course

【+R-Jugyo】Information for “+R-Jugyo” will be posted on manaba+R.

2〜3

Creating your research design

Types of Literature Reviews; purposes;
Creating your research design
finding relevant literature-literature "mining"
specialized academic phraseology, vocabulary, grammatical structure, and rhetorical patterns of literature reviews
Identifying research gaps

4~5

Phrasing the Research Questions/hypotheses

how RQs drive your research
creating research hypotheses
specialized academic phraseology, vocabulary, grammatical structure, and rhetorical patterns of research questions

6

Designing the methods section

Types of research design
specialized academic phraseology, vocabulary, grammatical structure, and rhetorical patterns of research methods

7

Theoretical frameworks/conceptual frameworks

specialized academic phraseology, vocabulary, grammatical structure, and rhetorical patterns

8

Research Ethics and Inclusive Language

How to cite and reference previous literature
What is inclusive language?
Building an inclusive vocabulary

9-10

Writing the Introduction

The structure and purpose of the introduction
• establish the context, background and/or importance of the topic
• indicate an issue, problem, or controversy in the field of study
• define the topic or key terms

11-12

Presentation Language/Strategies

signalling and transition words and phrases; sounding more academic; structure of presentation; forming useful feedback during Q&A

13

Reporting results/discussing findings

• consider multiple perspectives of an issue, or question before reaching a conclusion;
• considering the results of research and the implications of these.
• writing with caution

14

Writing the Conclusion/recommendations/limitations

• Understanding what conclusions we can make from our research
• summarize and bring together the main areas covered in the writing
• give final comments

Class Format

In principle, 14 classes Face to Face.
However, media classes (either live-streamed classes or on-demand classes) may be held when necessary.
Consult Manaba weekly schedule and news announcements for class format updates.

 * In order to protect public health and reduce the spread of disease, remember to wear a mask if you feel any virus-type symptoms.

Recommendations for Private Study

None in particular.

Grade Evaluation Method

Kind Percentage Grading Criteria etc.
Final Examination (Written) 0

Report Examination
(A report to be submitted by the unified deadline)		 0

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

Participation and preparation for class
Skills quizzes
Short writing Assignments

Grade Evaluation Method （Note）

The instructor will give a more detailed course outline in the first week of class. The sequence of materials may be different from that listed in the syllabus,.

Advice to Students on Study and Research Methods

To be announced by instructor.

Textbooks

Textbooks （Frequency of Use, Note）

Assigned learning materials will be provided or freely available online or in the Ritsumeikan library.

Reference Books

Reference Books （Frequency of Use, Note）

To be announced by instructor.

Web Pages for Reference

To be announced by instructor.

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

Learning Management System （manaba+R）,Other (Separate instructions will be provided)

Other Comments

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