Japanese in a Digital World

As our interactions with language increasingly take place on digital platforms, the skills needed for effective understanding and communication are transforming. For a better understanding of the transforming nature of written Japanese, this subject will provide students with a historical overview of the three scripts of the Japanese writing system— kanji, hiragana and katakana —as well as an exploration of the current characteristics and cultural significance of the various scripts. Further, the subject will equip students with the language skills needed to navigate and communicate effectively via digital platforms within a Japanese context. By analysing and critically engaging with real-life examples of ‘digital Japanese’, we will deepen cultural understanding, practically apply existing language skills, and further develop skills related to self-directed learning.