According to the James University Undergraduate Course Catalog, SOCI 491 is "[d]esigned to give capable students in sociology an opportunity to complete independent study under supervision." 

 

Dr. Kimiko Tanaka (James Madison University) and I [Andrew Mills] (James Madison University are collaborating on a SOCI 490 Independent Study that focuses on Society and Culture in Japan. Dr. Tanaka has designed this Independent Study to stretch knowledge of Japanese Society and Culture. In this Independent study I will read two books (see text information) that discuss particular aspects of society and culture in Japan. Dr. Tanaka selected the first text, and required me to select the second.

 

For three weeks a month, I will upload a discussion/blog post that:

1. Identifies the book, author, and chapter

2. Summarizes the text in 250 words

3. Critiques the writing in 500 words

On the fourth week of the month, I will upload the above accompanied by answers to posed questions about each reading.

 

Dr. Tanaka and I will collaborate during meetings to evaluate the progress I am making in my studies. We will "reply" to my comments with a discussion post. This post will critique my analysis and progress according to Dr. Tanaka's criteria. 

 

I will regularly update my research portfolio,  containing my current research for the semester. The portfolio will culminate into a final term paper to be evaluated by Dr. Tanaka. 

 

The Research Portfolio will be divided into three sections:

1. Ideas and Notes

2. Formal Notes for Research

3. Annotated Bibliography 

 

 

-Andrew Mills, Senior

James Madison University