Dr. Vincent B. Lesch Teaching and Courses

Proseminar: History of Japan II 

This proseminar offers an introduction to Japanese society, politics, and economy while also addressing selected core topics in the social scientific study of Japan. The course examines fundamental characteristics and current developments in Japan’s social, political, and economic structures, with a particular focus on the actors involved and their interactions. As the seminar progresses, it also turns to contemporary debates in Japanese studies. Historical and current examples are used to analyze mechanisms and illustrate the significance of Japan’s social, political, and economic systems. Each session includes mandatory core readings. 

In the accompanying tutorial, students complete various exercises on Japanese society, politics, and economy. These exercises provide the methodological and linguistic tools as well as the key vocabulary needed to analyze academic sources for the term paper (essay) in History of Japan II. In addition to text-based methodological and theoretical work, the tutorial emphasizes reviewing and deepening the topics discussed in the proseminar. As an introduction, selected academic methods and key theories from the social and political sciences are presented. 

 

Advanced Seminar: Education and Schooling in Japan 

This seminar explores the topic of education and schooling and its significance in various areas of Japanese society. It provides an overview of educational concepts ranging from early childhood education to entry into the labor market and beyond. In addition, it addresses current issues in the education sector and their implications for society, while also incorporating theoretical and methodological perspectives. 

Upon completing the seminar, students will have acquired an in-depth understanding of education and schooling in Japan and of the key actors in these areas. They will have engaged with current problems in Japan’s education system and their effects on social and political processes. Through group work with original-language sources and class discussions, students enhance their methodological and social skills and learn to research and evaluate relevant literature and data. They will be able to address academic questions independently using established methods and theories. 

The seminar employs source-based learning (using primarily German- and English-language literature, as well as some Japanese materials) and the analysis of interview data with the free online tool QCAmap (Qualitative Content Analysis according to Philipp Mayring). This allows students to apply and understand research methods through concrete examples. By working through key readings, students develop a deeper understanding of education and schooling in Japan. They are encouraged to make qualified statements about the issues discussed in the articles and video clips and to critically engage with different perspectives, especially in group discussions. 

Ongoing group presentations help students develop their analytical reading, academic writing, and presentation skills. The final term paper (approx. 15 pages) requires the application of academic methods and engagement with scholarly literature. 

 

Advanced Seminar: Sustainability in Japan 

This seminar examines the concept of sustainability and its significance in various areas of Japanese politics and society. It provides an overview of sustainability in ecological and social contexts, explores Japanese consumer behavior, and analyzes the understanding and implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Japan. Current developments in sustainability concepts, their implementation, and their societal implications are also discussed. 

A particular emphasis is placed on introducing students to research methods (e.g., online surveys with SoSci Survey) and analytical techniques such as policy analysis, stakeholder analysis, and discourse analysis through practical examples. The seminar also integrates ChatGPT and other generative AI models for research, translation, and analysis, providing a structured introduction to prompt design and the responsible use of AI in academia. 

Students have the opportunity to experiment with research software and artificial intelligence tools, as well as to learn data analysis using Excel, thereby acquiring practical skills useful for their academic and professional careers. In a concluding workshop, students present their term paper topics on Sustainability in Japan and benefit from peer feedback and discussion.