School of Political Science and Economics conducted a short-term study program at the Western Sydney University from February 17 to March 6. Western Sydney University is a large public university with a total of 11 campuses, and its main campus is located in northwest Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. The program was held at the Parramatta Campus, located in the suburbs of Sydney, where 17 people attended special lectures by faculty of Western Sydney University and discussed various topics in English for about three weeks.
Prior to the trip to Australia, a preparation course was conducted by faculty who would lead the program. In addition to receiving a brief overview of Australia and the characteristics and expressions of Australian English in advance, the program participants had the opportunity to interact with each other prior to the trip to Australia.
Special lectures by faculty of Western Sydney University
The special lectures covered topics such as Australian Politics, Indigenous History, and Japan-Australia Security Cooperation in Asia Region and Relations with the United States. The participating students worked on assignments and presentations with student volunteers from Western Sydney University.
Students said, “When we debated whether ANZUS(*) is necessary or not for Australia, it was interesting to learn about Australia’s position in the world from the standpoint of supporters and opponents.” and “It was a new experience for me to think about international politics and the international economy from Australian perspective,” indicating a high level of satisfaction with the special lectures.
*ANZUS: Security Treaty between Australia, New Zealand, and the USA
Students said, “When we debated whether ANZUS(*) is necessary or not for Australia, it was interesting to learn about Australia’s position in the world from the standpoint of supporters and opponents.” and “It was a new experience for me to think about international politics and the international economy from Australian perspective,” indicating a high level of satisfaction with the special lectures.
*ANZUS: Security Treaty between Australia, New Zealand, and the USA
Study tour of special lecture-related sites
On the study tour, we visited various places with faculty and students of Western Sydney University, mainly spots related to the special lectures. At the Australian Museum, participating students took on the task of finding exhibits that were featured in a lecture on Indigenous History and Culture. At the Three Sisters, a famous scenic spot in the Blue Mountains, they deepened their understanding of what they had learned in the lecture while experiencing the magnificent nature that is rarely seen in Japan. At The Rocks, they learned about the history of the area by actually looking around the parts of the old town that remain intact and the buildings that have been recreated.
Comments from participating students
Students who took part said, “The local student volunteers were very kind and the environment for using English was well prepared, so I was able to spend a fulfilling time. I would like to recommend this program to those who are worried about studying abroad.” and “This is a program where you can not only learn English but also learn about politics and economics. I want as many students as possible to join the program.”