In the “Applied Studies in Global and Local Cultures” class, we approach multilingual and divers societies in European countries. This class aims to learn about multicultural society from the perspective of history, culture, language, and education. In addition, this class discusses contemporary topics related to religion, ethnicity, and immigration covering multiculturalism and comparing their relationships with Japan.
Especially in this month, the main theme was the introduction of the European area and the start and overview of the European Union (EU) including geopolitical topics. The principal functioning of the EU and related institutions were also paid attention to in class so that our discussion would expand into worldwide topics, such as EU-Japan relationships.
Each student investigated some countries and regions in Europe. We discussed the recent tendencies of the EU area, background information, and also the consequences of “Brexit.” As a part of the group work, we also tried to develop topics such as “”Whether current EU member states should stay in the EU or any other idea?”” This topic helped students to understand the diversified history and characteristics of each country in Europe.
Above all, through the class, we are aware of the European “solidarity” and “cohesion” as the EU aims at (For reference: “”Aims and Values“” in European Union HP,) and their economic impact worldwide as well as potential with Japan.