History 327: The History of Modern Japan.
Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania
Spring 2007

MWF 10-11 am

Course Requirements: The History of Modern Japan does not have prerequisite coursework, though World History II would provide some foundation knowledge. In this seminar, students will be expected to read extensively and contribute to discussions on a regular basis. Seminars are designed to develop critical reading and thinking as well as the skills to express ideas in writing -- especially the ability to construct structured essays using arguments and evidence. Reading and discussion exercises are an important element of the course, designed to build these necessary skills. The class also requires a historical research project and in-class presentation based on a 12-15 page writing assignment. Students who have not yet completed History 200 (Historical Thinking and Writing) may be at a disadvantage in completing this assignment and will be expected to make all necessary efforts to learn the proper methods for conducting research.

Grading: Grades are issued on the following break-down of percentage points. Students may feel free to discuss their grades with the professor with only one stipulation – you must wait twenty-four hours to discuss graded assignments distributed in class.

• Classes are lecture oriented with scheduled discussions interspersed throughout the semester. Discussions require students to have read the assigned material carefully. Questions and participation are cheerfully encouraged in every class period at any time.
• Attendance is required for all class periods. Students may have up to three unexcused absences from class. Additional absences will reduce points on your final grade. Lectures and discussions often cover material not presented in outside readings. If you feel that you may have been missed during attendance, please inquire promptly at the end of class. Students who missed classes are encouraged to seek notes from fellow classmates. I do not provide students with outlines or notes.
• Exams will consist of short answer and essay questions. Both tests are non-cumulative and must be written out in pen in a blue book brought by the student. Short answer questions test a students understanding of key terms and require you to define a term and explain its historical significance. Students are responsible for all material covered in class or assigned as readings.
• Make-up Exams will be granted ONLY in cases of emergency or unavoidable circumstances. Please provide proof of conflict in these instances and the instructor will make reasonable attempts to accommodate your situation.
• Writing Assignment: Each student will have one major writing assignment in addition to several smaller assignments for discussion periods. Students will choose subjects from a list of approved topics. Students must submit research questions and a working bibliography at dates specified below. The final research paper must be 14-16 typed pages (title page not included), double-spaced, in a clearly legible 12 point font, with one inch margins, properly footnoted with bibliography. Students will receive more detailed research guidelines early in the semester. Students may submit a draft in advance for instructor comments, provided it is submitted in a timely manner. Students whose papers are late will be penalized. Papers will not be accepted via email.

• February 5 (Monday): Research Question Due
• February 12 (Monday): Draft Bibliography Due
• February 23 (Friday): Working Bibliography Due
• April 18 (Wednesday): Research Paper Due

• Presentation: Each student will give a 15-20 minute presentation of their research to the class. Details and expectations for presentations will be distributed in class mid-semester.
• Academic Honesty is a defining characteristic of the good student. Students must not engage in or tolerate acts of falsification, misrepresentation or deception, including cheating, plagiarizing, or using internet sources without proper citation. Students charged with a breach of academic integrity will receive due process under the guidelines of Lock Haven University. Consult the Academic Honesty Policy in the Student Handbook for additional information. The Handbook also indicates appropriate styles of documentation for your writing assignments in the English section at the rear of the book.
• Courtesy is important to maintain the learning environment. Be respectful of fellow students and arrive to class on time. It is inappropriate to chat, to read outside material, to send or read text messages, or to cause any other disturbances. In addition, please turn off all audible rings on cell phones before class starts. Laptop computers are permissible but they must be muted and used only for class-related activities.
• Disabilities: Reasonable accommodation will be provided for all students determined to have a learning disability, in accordance with Lock Haven University guidelines. If you require such accommodation, please inform the professor at the beginning of the semester, bringing your copy of the accommodation letter issued by the Office for Disability Services for Students (ODSS). If you feel that you may require disability accommodation but have not yet consulted with the ODSS, begin the process by scheduling an interview with the ODSS director, listed in the Student Handbook.
• Finally, the instructor reserves the right to amend this syllabus to fit the changing needs and circumstances of the class.