Basic Technical Japanese Series

Intended Audience

Engineers, scientists, technical writers and information specialists who gather scientific and technical information from Japanese sources, or who wish to follow the research and development activities of Japanese colleagues or rivals.

Participants in joint ventures or development projects with Japanese companies will learn the vocabulary and grammar they need to read technical reports. Anyone with a scientific or technical background can participate in this sequence. No previous Japanese language study or experience in Japan is needed.

Course Information

Basic Technical Japanese I

Introduces the three types of Japanese writing and the fundamentals of Japanese grammar. Covers hiragana, katakana and 100 of the most frequent kanji in the sciences and engineering. Offers short readings for mastery of grammar and technical vocabulary.

Credits: 3 graduate credits
Offered September-December
Instructor: Professor James L. Davis
Course delivery: Internet download

Basic Technical Japanese II

Completes the most important elements of grammar necessary to read technical documents. Covers an additional 165 kanji. Offers a wide range of short and intermediate-length readings to reinforce grammatical foundation and broaden vocabulary.

Credits: 3 graduate credits
Offered January-May
Instructor Professor James L. Davis
Course delivery: Internet download