Seminar of Civil Engineering VI

Academic unit or major

Civil Engineering

Instructor(s)

Academic Supervisor

Class Format

Exercise

Media-enhanced courses

-

Day of week/Period
(Classrooms)

Seminar

Class

-

Course Code

ZSS.Z692

Number of credits

020

Course offered

2020

Offered quarter

3-4Q

Syllabus updated

Jul 10, 2025

Language

Japanese

Syllabus

Course overview and goals

This course is designed for doctoral students to give them specialist knowledge in their field of study as well as basic knowledge in a broader area, with a focus on research assignments that are suggested by the academic supervisor (assignments may be decided through discussions with the academic supervisor). The students will incorporate this knowledge into their own research themes to carry out research, participate in academic discussions, and give presentations of their findings.
The aims of the abovementioned process are not only to develop the students’ skills in such areas as literature search and analysis, and techniques for collecting, analyzing, and assessing data, but also to acquire linguistic proficiency and comprehension skills as well as the ability to present ideas and arguments effectively in academic writing and through discussions and presentations.
Graduate education at Tokyo Tech is comprised of coursework education based on a structured curriculum and laboratory work characterized by individualized instruction. Research Seminar courses are central to the laboratory based education, and active learning is strongly encouraged. By enrolling in Research Seminar courses and pursuing research activities, students are expected to develop expertise in their field of study and gain skills that are sought after
by society.

Course description and aims

Students will acquire the following abilities in stages by completing Research Seminar V to X:
1) Theoretical understanding of the fundamentals of engineering necessary for professional practice and research.
2) Technical skills and knowledge required for cutting-edge research in their field of civil engineering, and the ability to apply this research to practical use.
3) Creativity required for producing, communicating, and applying new research ideas and knowledge.
4) Understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity, necessary for the international practice of civil engineering.
5) Communication and leadership skills needed for the international practice of civil engineering.

Keywords

Literature search, data collection, data analysis, academic-paper writing, presentation and discussion training,
laboratory-based education, coursework

Competencies

• Specialist skills
• Intercultural skills
• Communication skills
• Critical thinking skills
• Practical and/or problem-solving skills

Class flow

Classes are held at the academic supervisor’s laboratory. The course schedule will be determined through discussions
held among students and the academic supervisor. In some cases, multiple laboratories may choose to hold classes
jointly. Some laboratories might hold classes in English. Check with your academic supervisor.

Course schedule/Objectives

Study advice (preparation and review)

To enhance effective learning, students are encouraged to spend approximately 100 minutes preparing for class and another 100 minutes reviewing class content afterwards (including assignments) for each class.
They should do so by referring to textbooks and other course material.

Textbook(s)

Specified by the academic supervisor as necessary.

Reference books, course materials, etc.

Specified by the academic supervisor as necessary.

Evaluation methods and criteria

Specifics of the assessment criteria and methods, which are in accordance with the student learning outcomes 1)–5), will
be announced prior to the start of the course.

Related courses

• None

Prerequisites

Students must be a member of one of the laboratories.