Department of English Language and Literature
This department has the longest tradition of English education of all the universities in Hokkaido. Students develop their understanding of global cultural values and different cultures mainly through learning and research on various aspects of Anglo-American culture, as well as exploring their own Japanese identity. We introduce multi-media classes that actively utilize the internet and computers, and we also offer five-month overseas study programs as part of the formal curriculum in order to deepen intercultural understanding.
The department provides small-group education with fewer than 25 students per class to improve skills in discussion, presentation and opinion summaries. In two CALL (Computer Assisted Language Learning) rooms with 50 state-of-the-art networked computers in each, instruction from teaching staff and questions from students are exchanged over the network. Excellent overseas study programs enable students to improve their speech and presentation skills based on theory and practice. A scholarship benefit system is available to fund overseas study programs according to students' academic performance.
The department provides small-group education with fewer than 25 students per class to improve skills in discussion, presentation and opinion summaries. In two CALL (Computer Assisted Language Learning) rooms with 50 state-of-the-art networked computers in each, instruction from teaching staff and questions from students are exchanged over the network. Excellent overseas study programs enable students to improve their speech and presentation skills based on theory and practice. A scholarship benefit system is available to fund overseas study programs according to students' academic performance.
Features of the Curriculum
CALL Training(1st to 4th year)
Students prepare for certification examinations using a computer-based English learning system. In this class, students evaluate their own English proficiency and utilize the university's learning software to improve their language skills with the aim of scoring higher on aptitude tests such as TOEFL®, TOEIC® and STEP.
Intercultural Communication(3rd to 4th year)
Students consider the role of communication in a borderless society through verbal/non-verbal communication, values and cultural characteristics. Based on these studies, the course equips students with cultural aptitude by teaching recognition of different cultures and attitudes toward them, as well as how to live together with them.
Discussion(3rd to 4th year)
Students exchange ideas and opinions on topics such as the latest news from English newspapers. The subject to be discussed is first decided, and students then submit idea summaries after research, presentations and question exchanges.
Philosophy
The Department of English Language and Literature aims to provide a broad outlook on Anglo-American literature, culture and language and to deepen understanding of humankind and human cultures based on English as a common language.
Educational Goals
- Improve English skills
- Deepen understanding of different cultures
- Promote international exchange
- Develop individuals who can contribute to regional and international society
Faculty of Humanities
- Department of Human Sciences
- Department of English Language and Literature
- Department of Clinical Psychology
- Department of Child Development
