Type of course

The course can be taught in-person or online. At 'timetable & registration' you find an overview of our courses.

In a classroom course, the teacher and all students are present in the classroom. To be able to participate online, you are advised to use a headset with microphone.To check that everything is working properly, please use: Quick Tech Check.

It is not possible to switch between courses once the course has started.

Course description

For the Japanese 1 course no prior knowledge of the language is required. You will be introduced to the Japanese characters and the pronunciation of the Japanese language.

In this course, the topics covered include: exchanging greetings, giving a simple self-introduction, foods you like and dislike and ordering food at a restaurant.
The necessary grammar is explained. All skills are covered: speaking, listening, reading and writing. Listening and speaking skills are trained through the technique called "shadowing". Besides the language, this course also focuses on culture and society.

The course makes use of the digital learning environment BrightSpace. Within this learning environment you will find the homework and additional learning materials. Course participants are expected to prepare the lessons at home (approximately three hours per lesson).

The course is concluded with a test. Participants who have attended 80% of the lessons and who have successfully completed the final test are awarded a certificate.

Course material

• Irodori Starter lesson 1-8 (this book can be downloaded for free via irodori.jpf.go.jp/en/starter/pdf.html)

Target group and admission requirements

The course is intended for adults with a higher education diploma, including both students and staff members of Leiden University, as well as interested parties who have no connection to Leiden University.

The course is open to any person aged 17 or older with a completed secondary school education. There are no entry requirements with respect to knowledge of Japanese. A basic knowledge of English is required.

Other information

• The maximum number of participants for an online course is 16 and for a classroom course 18.
• The course load is 56 hours. On request a Course load declaration form can be issued. The student should enquire with their department whether course participation can be converted into credits.
• The holiday periods can be found in the Academic Language Centre's academic calendar.
• If classes are cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances, they will be added on to the end of the course. Please take into account courses may end later than scheduled.
• The course level is indicated with the help of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.