Workshop: GCSE Japanese Culture

Video gaming has been a major industry in Japan since the 1970s, and Nintendo is one of the most successful companies. This interactive workshop is at aimed at School/College pupils studying Japanese at GCSE or A-Level, as well as those who are interested in Japanese language and culture, but who have not had the opportunity to study the language. The workshop will allow pupils to learn about the history of the Nintendo Video Games Company through the years, starting in 1889 as a Hanafuda card manufacturer, leading to the present day as the world’s largest video game company by revenue. It will also introduce them to the world of the Anime industry, in relation to video gaming. The focus of the workshop will be on reflecting on cultural influences, language and creativity. Pupils in years 10, 11 and 12 are welcome to apply. Knowledge of Japanese is not a requirement, as in addition to developing cultural knowledge, the session will allow students to acquire some Japanese vocabulary. Additionally, it will give them the opportunity to learn about Japanese Language and Culture courses at a University level.