Modern Languages

Professor of modern languages (Japanese)

Specialties:

Memory and handwriting in language learning, Anime (Japanese animation), Robot making, Japanese language

Bio:

Hiroko Chiba teaches Japanese language, particularly focusing on the close relationship between memory and language learning – as well as the cognitive process in language learning. She also studies how memory is treated in science fiction, especially in anime (Japanese animation). Chiba has a special interest in the cultural foundations for the success of Japanese animation, which became very popular in the 1990s and early 2000s with cartoons for all ages. She also looks at robot making and its role in Japanese animation film and science fiction. It is related to the Japanese tradition of making moving dolls, which is reflected in animation and robotics.

Chiba teaches a Winter Term course titled Japanese Culture, Technology and Design.