Building the Japanese Teahouse In this course we will build a modern but traditionally-inspired Japanese teahouse, using its construction as a backdrop for exploring the technical aspects of Japanese carpentry and the cultural underpinnings of apprentice learning. Traditional craft apprenticeships are still very much the norm in contemporary Japan, in stark contract with Western notions of teaching and learning. A particular emphasis will therefore be placed on the pedagogy of craft training. We will explore how the culture of apprenticeship, the tea ceremony, and other aspects of Buddhist training inform students’ accepted notions of learning. Assigned readings will cover the history and traditions of Japanese carpentry as well as its technical aspects. Students will keep a journal and write a series papers during the term.  Douglas Brooks is a boatbuilder, writer, researcher and teacher who has been studying traditional Japanese boatbuilding since 1996. He is the author of five books and numerous articles, and his work has been honored by the American Craft Council and the Japanese Ministry of Culture.

Douglas Brooks Brooks

Reviews and ratings for Douglas Brooks Brooks at Middlebury College.Douglas Brooks Brooks teaches Building the Japanese Teahouse and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Douglas Brooks Brooks good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

Though this professor knows a lot about this subject and arguably has done some cool things, he would not shut up about how cool he was, and would constantly just talk about himself when we were suppose to be having student discussions and be learning about papers. Furthermore, the fact that he is teaching a Japanese carpentry class, and did not once acknowledge the fact that he is a white guy from America was horrifying to me. This class is really chill, with just three essays assigned and weekly journal prompts, but by the end of it, I was so done with the professor, his arrogance, and his teaching style. I think this class has a lot of potential, and the professor kinda ruins it. Also told me my accommodations for a health-related issue were not a reason not to be in class, even though that's what the accommodation was for. 