3.1

Akemi Kagawa

Languages - Orange Coast College

3.1
Quality
3.8
Difficulty
39%
Would Retake
137
Reviews
3.1
Quality
3.8
Difficulty
3.1
Helpful
3.1
Clarity

39%

Would Retake

137

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official
137 total ratings

5

40

4

27

3

22

2

22

1

26

What Students Say

She has a terrible temper and even yells

JAP180 - 1.0 rating

I came to class everyday, prepared and ready to learn

JA180 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

100%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 34 grades
Most common grades:
A (12)
Drop/Withdrawal (6)
C+ (5)
Grade Distribution
A(16)B(6)C(8)D(6)F(1)A-/B+(3)
Based on 46 reported grades
A: 12
Drop/Withdrawal: 6
C+: 5
A+: 4
Common Tags
Participation matters (32)
Tough grader (19)
Skip class? You won't pass. (16)
Lots of homework (11)
Tough Grader (8)
Clear grading criteria (6)
LOTS OF HOMEWORK (4)
Get ready to read (3)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.34 avg change
Aug
Sep
Dec
Feb
Apr
Jun
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

285

5.0

(1)

JAPANESE185

5.0

(2)

JAPA180

5.0

(1)

JPNS180TO285

5.0

(1)

JPNS185280

5.0

(1)
+37 more courses
Difficulty by Course

JAPANESE280

5.0

JA185

5.0

JPNS189

5.0

JAPN285

5.0

JPN181

5.0

Reviews (136)
4.0
3.0
JPNS285
Aug 23, 2003

Kagawa-sensei is a good Japanese teacher. Quizzes are pretty easy, but the tests can be difficult. Gives good notes, and has good curriculum. The oral interviews are the only things I hated. Easily recommended for Japanese at OCC.

4.0
3.0
JPN185
Nov 22, 2003

A somewhat closed/reserved prof that can give you the cold shoulder, but will go along with jokes sometimes. Critical of oral performance, but she cares how well you do. Tests are medium-hard, but teaches with clarity.

1.0
3.0
JAPANES185
Feb 27, 2004

She is so mean and she thinks that she is the best. well, she does not teach well and i do not think she is good

3.0
3.0
JPN185
Mar 24, 2004

Kagawa really a mean teacher...she is the only teacher teaches courses that over 185...You will do okay if you study her materials...Her test and quiz is not too hard... but she is not really nice...

2.0
4.0
JAPANESE
May 14, 2004

She is mean and she is not good teacher. She thinks she is smart and the best, but she is not. It is wrong for teachers to discrminate students based on thier abilities. She is not understanding .

5.0
5.0
JPNS185
May 27, 2004

She is not mean if you are a good student and not talk when she is talking. the best word to describle her is strict. if you want to learn japanese, she is the best teacher, if you are looking for a easy foreign language class,take spanish.

5.0
3.0
JPN185
Jun 22, 2004

She was tough,but she was a very good teacher.I learned a lot from her class.

4.0
3.0
JPNS180
Nov 1, 2004

Good teacher. Want to learn Japanese right teacher for you but becareful she comes with a sting!!- Really stubern !! so if you had a bad past experinces with teachers think carefully before taking her class

5.0
4.0
JPNS185
Nov 10, 2004

She's the sweetest teacher ever! She'll like you if you study!

3.0
4.0
JAPN185285
Nov 17, 2004

Kagawa-sensei. Strict, cold, and hard to connect it. Either it is her cold attitude or her ego that gets in the way of trying to smile now and then, or it is the fact that she is simply miserable with her life. You'll learn Japanese, but you will also learn how she distances herself from you.

5.0
3.0
JAP180
Nov 18, 2004

She is so nice! A great teacher who is kinda of strict but that is only because she likes serious students who want to learn.. Not goof off.. But she is very fair and it is easy to get a good grade in her class if you just pay attention... I give her an A+

3.0
4.0
JPN280
Nov 28, 2004

If you really want to learn Japanese well, Kagawa is a good professor. She can be very tough if you come to her class unprepaired. And you can be really sh..tty if you miss turning in the assignments. The amount of work load in her class is too much sometimes and it is very tiring.

3.0
3.0
JAP180
Dec 3, 2004

Kagawa is very strict and has trouble understanding some questions when asked. The work load is big, but thats only expected for learning a language. If you pay attention in class and do ALL the homework (esp the listening hw) you will pass her class.

1.0
5.0
JAPANESE280
Jul 11, 2005

She is extremely rude! If you want an unfair teacher whom chooses favorites, take her, but heed this warning.....she will take you on one hell of a ride. Taking her class would be the biggest mistake. Funny, I got an A with another professor at another school and had to drop Kagawa.

5.0
2.0
JAPANESE185
Apr 11, 2005

Shes very very strict and sometimes rude... I dont like her "class rules", they're kinda stupid (we are not high school students u kno). But her tests are easy ... a lot of hw tho... very clear and u learn a lot!

5.0
2.0
JPNS185
Jul 20, 2005

you can get away with not doing all the homework and the tests are easy but she goes faster than h e l l and you better be ready. and she's hot. she'll help you if you ask. it's a hard subject if you aren't japanese so it makes it hard to pick everything up.

5.0
3.0
JAPA180
Grade: A
Aug 3, 2005

Kagawa-sensee is a perfect language teacher. Nobody can expect that learning such difficult thing as Japanese is easy. The amount of work is huge and it is ABSOLUTELY necessary to partcipate in class activities. But all rules are vry clear and easy to follow. I got an A in her class and I'm looking forward to learning Japanese in another school!

5.0
4.0
JAP180
Aug 27, 2005

Kagawa sensei is a wonderful teacher, but she does come from the old school of Japanese teachers. If you're not ready for a disciplined study course, pick someone else. Don't goof off in her class - she'll throw you out. Get focused and you'll have no trouble. Someone said she doesn't smile. They're wrong; she does smile and she's adorable.

5.0
4.0
JAPANESE180
Aug 27, 2005

No Comments

5.0
4.0
JAPANESE180
Aug 27, 2005

Some say she's cold; she's not. She doesn't like people interfering in the education of those of us who are really trying to learn such a difficult subject. This class is hard, but she's a great teacher & I look forward to studying under her again.

5.0
3.0
JPNS185
Aug 30, 2005

No Comments

5.0
3.0
JPNS180TO285
Sep 27, 2005

Japanese is a difficult subject and as such Kagawa-sensei realistically reflects that in her teaching method. She expects her students to put in real effort and rewards that effort respectively, regardless of actual class performance or talent. If you are serious about learning Japanese then there isn't a better professor than her.

5.0
2.0
JPNS180
Oct 9, 2005

LOTS of quizzes [at least one every day], but you'll do well if you study. It's a difficult class but Kagawa sensei teaches it well... also, remember to participate... and you'll be fine!

5.0
3.0
JPNS185280
Grade: A-
Nov 2, 2005

She is a great teacher even though she is strict. You will learn a lot from her class. SECRET: She is a strict teacher, but she is a the nicest teacher I have ever seen. Don't forget preview before class.

2.0
3.0
JPNS280
Grade: A+
Nov 11, 2005

Incredibly rude. If you ask a valid question, she tells you to figure it out yourself. There are many other issues bordering on harassment that I can't get into within this word limit. I seriously would rather change schools than have this professor again. (She's the only upper division Japanese professor at OCC.)

2.0
4.0
JPNS280
Dec 8, 2005

she's all that of what person before me wrote. only 3rd semester JPNS but she treats the class and expects it to be more like a class full of JPNS majors or something like that. It's probably the only class even though you have a firm “A” and still have no idea you'll pass or not (depends on the FINAL) She totally ruined my experience in JPNS.

4.0
5.0
JAPANESE180
Dec 15, 2005

She is extremely difficult BUT she is a great teacher. I learned more in this 180 class than I did in 3 years of Spanish in High school. Lots of work, quizzes everyday. Participation/attendance is literally half your grade. It's a pretty fun class, long though. She's really nice, interesting. Great class but extremely difficult.

5.0
4.0
JPNS180185
Jul 25, 2006

one of the most difficult classes you will ever take, but one he of most rewarding as well... as long as you follow Kagawa's rules and prepare yourself

2.0
3.0
JPNS185
Jul 28, 2006

shes aiight...kinda needs to explain things so that people can understand better instead of always using technical terms to describe things. Shes really strict too so make sure u raise ur hand a lot and pay attention.

2.0
5.0
JAP185
Nov 22, 2006

This is how they would teach this class in Japan, as she so eloquently stated. She may have a problem with men in general since she did state that men in Japan don't treat women right. Aside from this she does do her job and she does require participation, so don't drop your hand after raising it. She'll skip you if you make mistakes, so fake it.

3.0
4.0
JPN280
Dec 4, 2006

Looks down upon the native speakers, not lenient at all with no room for compromise or second tries. Be careful to not talk too much/too loudly or she will loose her temper and may become violent. Extremely nitpicky, if it's not perfect like how she does it, then it is wrong. Always. Not reccommend, esspecially for the sensitive ones.

4.0
2.0
JAP180
Nov 25, 2006

Well, the class is difficult nonetheless but rewarding as well. If you hate to participate then this is not the class for you. Your grade would be 60 percent participation. Overall, kagawa sensei is the best japanese teacher i ever had. Just participate and you would do fine.

4.0
3.0
JPNS185
Dec 14, 2006

To begin, the rumors are true: She's the strictest teacher at OCC, and has no sense of humor. I'm convinced that "kagawa" is Japanese for "ice queen." But, she's an outstanding teacher. She's very good at explaining things and is a wonderfully clear speaker. If really learning Japanese is your goal then take her class. Cute too!

5.0
1.0
JPNS185
Dec 15, 2006

She is quiet strict but was also one of the most understanding teachers I've ever had. Class can be challenging but as long as you participate in class you should be fine. Since participation is mandatory and also a big chunk of your grade, I wouldn't recommend it if you don't like to talk in front of the class.

5.0
5.0
JPNS180
Jan 30, 2007

Kagawa A- a really good sensei I haven’t finished her class yet but I had to drop it because it was too much work. Make sure you have time to focus on that class She is very intimidating and I dreaded the oral interview (that is the second part of the final) even though I didn’t make it that far! : ) I'll be back kagawa!

5.0
4.0
JPNS185
May 26, 2007

She's changed! Very, very nice lady, and funny too. Just make sure you keep up with the class and do your work, and volunteer! Love her, cant wait to take her agian.

3.0
5.0
JA185
May 26, 2007

Professional? Well, mostly. But her class is so unpleasent, so I can't say she's really professional. Makes hostile environment, has the wrong attitude, needs to lighten up. Teaching style inappropriate for OCC. Japanese suck at English because they are taught English in the manner that Kagawa teaches Japanese. Cypress College is place to take JA.

4.0
4.0
JPNS285
Jul 16, 2007

I have taken this class since 185... and throughout my time she has gotten progressively nicer and easier as students came accustomed to her teaching style. Very tough teacher with very strict policies, however if you do the homework (REALLY) i guarantee nothing less than a B-.

4.0
5.0
JPNS189
Jul 26, 2007

Never take this class for intersession or summer. it is hard beyond hard. expect nervous break downs, coffee and cigarrette adictions. She's a tuff one but you do learn the stuff. you get used to her accent. I maybe suggest taking a different teacher for the first class then take her after that. good teacher though

2.0
5.0
JPNS280
Dec 10, 2007

Simply: She does not teach. You come to class, she reads her lecture notes, you read from the book, she reads her power-points. It is essentially independent study if you want to learn anything. She is also unclear about the workbook, and when to do assignments. Useless class if you want to actually come out speaking Japanese. Avoid if you can.

4.0
4.0
JPNS285
May 15, 2008

Well, by no means is the class easy. You have to work for your grade and participate and do all the mandatory homework. She nice to people who really cares about the language and if your just taking it just to read manga than this is not the class for you. I have trully ascertain so much from her class. Had her since 180 (B), 185 (B), 280 ( C).

3.0
2.0
JAPN185
Jan 16, 2008

Based from her teaching style, you will learn to speak Japanese. Participation is a plus in her class, she likes serious students, however not too keen on those that ask redundant questions. She can be very rude and DISRESPECTFUL, you cannot call her on it, she won't give you time of day. expect to work your butt off, it'll be worth it!

2.0
3.0
JAPAN2
Nov 23, 2008

Is anyone familiar with a teachers job title? I'm sure that somewhere there it says something about encouraging students... she once called me into her office and told me to stop raising my hand, participating in class. These chain of events and her poor teaching style ultimately resulted in my withdrawl from her class and continuing elsewhere!!!!!

1.0
5.0
JAP180
Nov 24, 2008

she is a bad teacher and she doesn't even know what she is talking about. her teaching is nothing like the one they teach at japan. her teaching doesn't make since. she can't teach anything, her teaching sucks. if your thinking about doing anything with japanese if your career do not take this class.

4.0
3.0
JPN180
Dec 8, 2008

Everyone says shes a bad teacher and such. She's not a bad teacher. Shes just REALLY strict. You have to participate to get the participation points to get a good grade in the class. You have to study. Its a must. She wants you to learn. If you need help, ask her questions or find a Japanese Tutor. Good luck future students.

2.0
3.0
JPNJP28
Dec 9, 2008

she has favorites. i am definetly not in her favorites catagory. she moved me & friends seats because we were "disrupting the class". she told us we can't sit next to each other at all this semester & next semster if we take her class. then she tells me to put my phone away( which is understandable) but then next class meeting i was looking down at

2.0
4.0
JAPN280
Dec 9, 2008

my notes & she tells me to sit in the front. like honestly wtheck is that ?! we're not in high school. then during the final she comes up to me once again saying " what do you have in your hand " i said " an eraser" so stupid. im not gonna have my phone out during the test. anyways my point is she can have favorites. oh &' im japanese so if you're

2.0
4.0
JPN280
Dec 9, 2008

fluent in japanese then shes' not for you ! "no way "

3.0
5.0
JAPN180
Dec 9, 2008

The first three quarters of this course were incredibly easy, but the last bit of the course is impossibly hard and thats the part that counts. I have gotten all A's through the course until now and I am wondering if i can even pass this class. the course is very very difficult. procede with caution.

2.0
5.0
JAPN180
Dec 9, 2008

the questions on the test are random and so tricky that you might think the answer should be more than one. you have to do every single homeworks and you get credit for them. i wouldn ever take her class again

5.0
5.0
JAPN285
Dec 11, 2008

Anyone who complains about her classes being hard needs to face it; Japanese is hard. I took her classes 4 semesters straight and I never felt she was mean; she just doesn't fool around. Plus, she even gave me letters of recommendation for study abroad. I learned a lot; I was able to skip my first semester of Advanced Japanese after her classes!

3.0
5.0
JAPNA180
Mar 3, 2009

This teacher is extremely strict, and will not tolerate any excuses, no matter how reasonable they are. I was forced to drop the class because of it.

4.0
3.0
JAP180
May 2, 2009

Im doing the duo enrollment prgram, so im still in high school but allowed to take college classes. She is a tuff professor, and can be harsh at times. But ive had high school teacher harder than her! she forces you to apply yourself and you do learn japanese. shes might be tuff, but definitely the best if you want to learn japanese.

2.0
4.0
J185
May 25, 2009

She's unreasonably strict and sometimes rude. She may forget to mention something and then claim that she said it, "over and over." Be sure your hiragana is perfect, or else she'll dock you credit. Be SUPER prepared for everything and anything, because she's not forgiving. Raise your hand and participate because it's a major part of the grade.

4.0
5.0
JAPN185
Jun 14, 2009

She is tough but fair. There are no surprises in this class. Everything is on the syllabus. If you have no interest in Japan or Japanese do not take this class. You will be left behind. The drop rates in this class is amazing. In my classes alone and I have taken Japanese 180 the drop rate was 30% to 40% plus. You will learn in this class though.

3.0
4.0
JPN180
Jun 26, 2009

Insists class is only for people with no prior knowledge of Japanese (& tries to get them to drop if they do), but I probably wouldn't have passed if I didn't. Participation is important. Nitpicky on writing & teaches it weird. I once came in 2 minutes late and she ignored me for the rest of class, so I couldn't even get participation points.

4.0
4.0
JAPN180
Aug 18, 2009

OMG i don't understand wat ppl r complaining about. wat she wants is simple. come to class, do the work, don't disturb others. those that complain she ignored u bcuz of tardy, on the first day, she always tells u to COME UP TO HER and SAY "sumimasen" wen u come late. once u do it, ur fine. and is participation that hard? raise ur hands if u kno.

4.0
4.0
JAPN185
Aug 18, 2009

even if u don't get called, she still counts it. do the hw and wat's required and show her u know the stuff!! i didn't have any knowledge be4 the class, still got an A in both 180&185. READ THE SYLLABUS!! it's lotta work, but that's wat a college is about. ur an adult. be responsible for urself. she's very organized. NO SUPRISE! Tough but good prof

4.0
4.0
JAPN185
Nov 11, 2009

Very strict in attendance and participation. After all, that's how it's done in Eastern Asia. Don't miss a class especially after the mid-point. I did and I was struggling to learn the kanji... Great teacher though.

2.0
5.0
JPN181
Dec 6, 2009

Very unreasonable. Hard to communicate with.

3.0
2.0
JAPN180
Jan 24, 2010

First few weeks were fairly easy. Then we sped through 5 chapters. Study for every test, and practice essay writing. Late to class? Just say hajimemashite. Sometimes very unclear. Be sure to participate in class alot. Midterms and exams are the hardest. Last week of class she had a 3 part midterm. 1 oral, 1 mc, 1 essay. Study! textbook used alot.

1.0
1.0
JAP280
Feb 6, 2010

Kagewa has a funny way of playing favorites. If you're not good at Japanese, do a lot of sucking up and study her ancient study material. If you're Japanese, just suck up and NEVER talk. If you're good at Japanese, repeat the same and don't expect to get better without damaging your grade. Wait until you can study at a Uni to truly study Japanese.

1.0
4.0
JAP180
Oct 30, 2010

Possibly the worst teacher I've ever had. She plays by favorites, and is quick to make assumptions. Was accused of cheating when I didn't even know the person who I supposedly cheated with. Talks as if her student's are little kids, as if we were stupid.

2.0
5.0
JPN180
Nov 11, 2010

Condescending attitude, makes mistakes and changes her mind on a whim. Will mark your hiragana wrong one day then say it's perfect the next. Heavily plays favorites and will pick on those she dislikes, remaining quiet and minding your business as others suggested will not help at all if she dislikes you. I feel she picks on those she wants to drop.

1.0
5.0
JAPN180
Nov 11, 2010

worst teacher on this planet!!! She accused me (and the guy from 2 comments down and a third person) of cheating. Me and the other 2 guys had 2 similar mistakes on our homeworke and assumed we were cheating! Hey chris.

3.0
3.0
JAPN180
Nov 20, 2010

fairly strict, thats what college is about but her teaching style doesnt make any sense and doesnt know what shes doing. its OK to make errors on the speaking&reading part while participating, she normally corrects anyone but make sure your writing style looks EXACTLY her way or else she'll mark u wrong. the class is not hard, just lot of work.

2.0
5.0
JAPN180
Nov 24, 2010

You will learn a LOT in her class, but be prepared for WORK. She is extremely strict. If you talk, she will yell at you. The one on one oral final was very scary for me because she is very intimidating. But if you work hard, you will do well and learn a lot.

4.0
4.0
JPN180
Dec 8, 2010

This is a 5 credit hour course; don't take it if you aren't prepared to work, a lot. Also, hopefully by the time you start, you have enough balls to raise your hand to answer questions, even if you aren't 100% sure you're right. The reason she 'plays favorites' is because in a class of ~30, only 5 or so really volunteer information! Study and work!

4.0
1.0
JAP185
Dec 18, 2010

I'm not really a big fan of her teaching style but she's an alright teacher. Get on her good side by participating alot though sucking up isn't necessary. This class can get pretty hard so study outside of class.

4.0
4.0
JAP185
Jan 1, 2011

If you did not have Kagawa sensei for your 180 professor your going to think its A LOT of work. There is homework almost daily, and the topics covered are grammar and kanji mostly so you can expect the class to be tough, her grading is not easy, and you will have to go that extra mile, in my class about exactly 1/2 the class failed(D or F) goodluck

3.0
4.0
JAPN180
May 28, 2011

Prepare to learn through self-study towards the mid-end, she mostly assigns readings and then briefly goes over it in class. Oral Final was based a lot on luck, 7 topics (Some easy, some hard), randomly choose one and hope you luck out. Participation is huge! 30% of your grade, to get the full credit expect to participate at least 4 times a day.

4.0
3.0
JPN285
Jul 13, 2011

she might seem difficult,but she really just wants the best out of her students. she is very organized, everything is online for you.i think overall she is a wonderful teacher and is one of my favorites. just like every other teacher you are expected to do the assignments. just do the hw and try participate and you should be fine.

5.0
2.0
JAPN180
Sep 27, 2011

She might seem difficult but keep in mind this is a language class so you still need to work. If you do your part, you'll be fine I believe. I actually like her. She just wants you to do well. If you like the language you're learning, you'll do well.

4.0
5.0
JAPN180
Dec 20, 2011

She will tell you to make flashcards for hiragana and katakana. No requirement to make flashcards for the rest of the vocab but I suggest that you do. There are only 6 chapters so, there's a reasonable amount of vocab you need to learn. The book is kinda confusing but read it, do the homework, show up, participate, and hang in there.ItsHardGoodLuck

3.0
5.0
JPN180
May 30, 2012

Tests are hard and you only have an hour and 30 mins to finish it since she do lectures at the next chap. Recommend making flash cards and reading the book , oh and don't expect her to round your grades even if your just .01 to a passing.

3.0
2.0
JAPAN004
Dec 5, 2012

very intimidating! you HAVE TO participate in her class.. it's the only way you will pass. you need to bring your textbooks every class. you CAN'T be late not even a minute late she will deduct 1% from your grade. if caught with your phone she will deduct 5% your overall grade. she's a good teacher you just need to keep up with work and studying.

5.0
1.0
JPN180
Sep 19, 2013

I love Kagawa-sensei. She may seem strict or intimidating, but she's actually really nice & funny. Don't get on her bad side. Show up on time, participate (why wouldn't you, you're in a language class), & bring all the materials you need. She HATES when people talk over her & will you call you out on it. Easy and fun class if you put in effort.

1.0
5.0
JAP180
Oct 4, 2013

Condescending

1.0
4.0
JA180
Nov 1, 2013

I think she's burnt out on teaching. She was strict at the beginning of the semester but now, halfway in, she's just mean to everyone in class. Half of class is teaching Japanese and the other half is telling us how horrible we are. 90% of students are trying really hard but she takes the 10% out on all of us. I'm completely turned off to Japanese.

4.0
3.0
JAPN280
Dec 13, 2013

In my opinion, I believe KagawaSensei is a great professor.?Challenging for sure,but as an English speaker learning Japanese there is going to be a hardcore learning curve no matter where you learn.?She helps you lay the foundation for your ??? journey. Don't be lazy,participate,do HW,have some fun.?The final interview is intense so prepare well.

5.0
2.0
JAPANESE185
Dec 18, 2013

Kagawa Sensei is the best language Professor I have ever had. She's very organized and professional. Her lectures are very clear and her tests are fairly easy as long as you study. Indeed, she is very strict on attendance, tardiness, and behavior. Just follow what she expects and you will be fine.

4.0
4.0
JPN280
May 9, 2014

She's very strict with what she expects from you, especially the beginner level classes. This is very helpful when learning the writing systems and developing a foundation for the language. However, the rigidity of her class may not be helpful at J280. She's not always clear on the more complex grammatical structures either.

3.0
4.0
JAPNA180
Jul 23, 2014

She is condescending came to her with a simple question before class, was respectful and quiet. Asked why I had been docked points due to 'improper' HW order. It was a weird exception but instead of being civil she raises her voice and basically made a scene in front of the class saying it was common sense. Is a good teacher,sucked the fun out thou

3.0
4.0
JPN180
Jul 28, 2014

A fairly good teach that will help you master the basics extremely well and manages time just as well. just extremely nitpicky on minor things like homework, participation, neatness of your hiragana. If you have bad handwritng or just not dedicated enough to take your time on homework and look carefully dont take her. Shes HARD

4.0
4.0
J280
Grade: A
Oct 14, 2014

Very strict teacher, and is prone to acting like things are incredibly obvious if she's already explained once. If you feel that Japanese will be intuitive to you, she is a great teacher and is very fun when you get to higher level classes, but she is also very strict about rules and grades. Occasionaly is not clear about how to answer questions.

5.0
4.0
285
Nov 5, 2014

She's a wonderful teacher. Hard on her 180 class, but as you progress into the higher levels, you earn respect & class becomes smoother. She doesn't tolerate any unprofessionalism. Things need to be done a certain way & will be done accordingly. This is a serious class for serious Japanese learners. Do your best & she will recognize it.

2.0
5.0
JPN185
Grade: B
Dec 9, 2014

Her class is really hard to get A because she is confusing on everything. She gives you homework that you haven't learned and she grades strict and she must find something wrong on your homework. In her class I was more likely to study by my own, couldn't understand her most of the time. Her test is difficult and tricky that have option A to ABCDE

5.0
2.0
JAPNA180
Feb 4, 2015

I received an A+ because I worked hard on this class. You must concentrate in her class to pass, practice speaking, and do homework everyday. She is a perfectionist (like me), but she's also very understanding and helpful. She's the reason why I want to study more Japanese. If only my major is Japanese, Foreign Language, or something...

3.0
4.0
JAPNA185
Grade: B
Jun 18, 2015

Be very careful with this one. She can be a good teacher, but she's got an incredible temper if you're unfortunate enough to do something wrong. Provides plenty of reviews and guides for tests and quizzes, and is overall a fair grader and wants you to improve. That said, don't screw around and listen carefully, or you're gonna get yelled at.

5.0
2.0
JPN185
Grade: A+
Aug 26, 2015

All of u that are fulfilling your lang req at OCC have it EASY. I transferred and thought I'd boost my gpa by redoing Japanese. Kagawa sensei basically spoonfed you info, w all the handouts and exercises. At my current school, you basically teach yourself & ur expected to master concepts after doing it once. I wish I could take her again.

5.0
5.0
JAP180
Grade: B
Aug 3, 2016
Would take again

When taking a foreign language consider the culture as well. Japanese people are very prompt and probably the least rude people on Earth. Therefore, when she tries to teach respect- the Japanese way- people think she is rude but actually, in Japan, you are the rude one. She's a great teacher that cares and makes you work hard.

1.0
5.0
JA180
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Sep 18, 2016
Wouldn't take again

I came to class everyday, prepared and ready to learn. I always had proper conduct and even greeted her in the halls. It didn't matter. She's horribly mean and likes making students feel stupid. She's hard to understand and yelled at me during class when I misunderstood a minor thing. 1/2 through the semester I had an A, I dropped. Not worth it.

1.0
5.0
JAP180
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Sep 26, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Be warned: This professor is tough, nit-picky, and she will not hesitate to humiliate you in front of the class if you ask a question or make a mistake. She has a terrible temper and even yells. There is an incredible amount of work that has to be put into this class to do well, I wouldn't say it's worth it at all for the amount of mistreatment.

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
4.0
4.0
JAPNA180H
Grade: A
Apr 22, 2017
Would take again

It's certainly a challenge, but if you can learn to break free from being spoonfed and having teachers repeat answers, you will be fine. If you can channel the embarrassment from her snapping at you for making mistakes into determination to succeed, you will thrive in this class. You will learn respect and Japanese culture without even trying.

Respected
Get ready to read
Participation matters
5.0
5.0
JAP185H
Grade: A
Aug 4, 2017
Would take again

She's a nice professor. She's a really tough grader but as long as you do the homework and study regularly, you will be fine. And also don't forget to participate in the class, you don't need to worry about saying the wrong answer. You just need to have confident.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
2.0
4.0
JA180
Aug 4, 2017
Wouldn't take again

In the syllabus she stated that if we work with a classmate on homework we need to write their names on our paper as a form of making sure we don't plagiarize. So my classmate and I did that but she took our homework as no credit because we "cheated". Then she passive aggressively reprimanded our class about "cheating".

Tough Grader
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
2.0
JA180
Grade: A+
Dec 19, 2017
Would take again

Finished the class with above a 95% final score. Kagawa-sensei makes the class VERY simple if you pay attention- she provides EVERYTHING for you. She really went out of her way to do this. Show up to class, don't disrupt others, and participate- you will pass with a B no problem. Many say she is rude, but that's only to those who are goofing off.

BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
Clear grading criteria
Would take again
1.0
4.0
JAPN180
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Feb 1, 2018
Wouldn't take again

The class was diificult but thats not what made me drop her class. The atmosphere of the class went horrible towards the middle of the semester. She became incredibly impatient with people and their questions. It became very intimidating to ask her anything. She would even engage in conflict with her best students. Never again.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
5.0
5.0
JA180
Mar 28, 2018
Would take again

Japanese is a difficult language to learn (3 sets of characters to read, write, vocalize, past/non-past verb conjugation, several levels of politeness). Those not willing or able to devote 20 hours per week, should not sign up for college-level Beginning Japanese, as they will blame the instructor when they fall behind (study harder or drop).

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
JA180
Grade: B
Apr 2, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Everything has to be her way, she dictates all her students, you have to have a beautiful writing(perfect writing), she takes lots of unreasonable points off(leaves u wonder why point off for small size etc), she just like you to learn Japanese her way, she needs to relax and have empathy, its not a hard class but she grades it SUPER HARD!!! No no

Tough Grader
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
5.0
JAPN180H
Grade: A
May 11, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Very tough grader, you better participate/involve for points, honor class is way harder than regular not just the materials, but she's hard on honor students. Of course everything must be her way of writing and must be nearly perfectionist. Thing is it's a very good, challenge class to take since most of OCC classes are too easy like high school.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
JAP180
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Jun 3, 2018
Wouldn't take again

I have graduated from a 4-year university by now but honestly my hatred for this professor has not changed single bit. I did everything accordingly and for some reason she was always condescending towards me, sometimes was also racist. She took point off just because I stretched in class one time. She is unstable. Eventhough I had an A, I dropped

Tough Grader
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
4.0
JAPN180H
Jun 14, 2018
Would take again

If you really follow the syllabus to a T you will not be hurting down the line. She makes all of her expectations very clear and if you go to office hours with personal problems (example a funeral or other family obligation of a serious matter) she is very respectful and willing to accommodate. Great Prof. Extra credit opportunities

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
3.0
JAP180
Grade: F
Jun 26, 2018
Would take again

Taken her Japanese Class at Cerritos College in 1996. I think this is the same instructor. Her instruction was straight out of the text book of Yokuso Book 2. Not the best but ok. I had no problems when her, just the students I couldn't interact with, and that failed me. I was able to pass all other Japanese course but not this class.

Gives good feedback
Respected
GROUP PROJECTS
2.0
5.0
JAPN180
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Dec 8, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Her class felt so cold. It felt a lot like a strict high school class . Lots of homework, though that's expected. Points off your grade every time you're late before class or after the break , no touching your face, and 5 percent off your grade if caught with your phone out. No good penmanship? Points off. "Master pieces, always master pieces"

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
2.0
4.0
JAPN180
Grade: Incomplete
Apr 2, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Kagawa is a strict professor but not unfair. She clearly outlines what her class will be like in her syllabus and grades accordingly. If you study and put in the effort you should be ok grade wise. The issue arises from her personality. She tends to be quite discouraging and her class is boring. I have a B and consider dropping after each class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
Tough grader
4.0
2.0
JAPN280
Grade: A
Apr 17, 2019
Would take again

She is not an unfair professor! She requires you to learn how she runs her class and wants to structure it the way a Japanese class would be. My entire class minus three people got A's last semester and those that didn't got B's. Raise your hand as much as possible even if you're unsure and do the reviews she uploads right before each test. Easy A.

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
3.0
4.0
JA180
Grade: B-
Nov 9, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Alright, Kagawa Sensei has a sort of dictator approach to teaching. I come from a martial arts background so this wasn't a huge deal but dang the fun wasn't really there totally in learning a foreign language. She actually liked me as a student for some time (small group of favorites) and the class was still very difficult to get a high grade in.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
2.0
5.0
JAP180
Grade: B+
Dec 29, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Be prepared to work hard and put in a lot of hours for your grade. Her syllabus clearly lays out the semester and her expectations. Although I got a solid base of Japanese culture/ language, I was really disappointed by the atmosphere. The classroom is very stiff and she humiliates/lashes out at students who are not one of her favorites.

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Tough grader
4.0
4.0
JA180
Grade: A
Feb 23, 2020
Would take again

I took Kagawa Sensei for Japanese 180 as well and she's very particular about her standards for students. Many complain about this, but she clearly states her expectations in the syllabus. You need to try, participate, and do your work for a good grade. She does become much more laid back in 185 if you want to continue taking Japanese.

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Participation matters
1.0
1.0
J185
Grade: A
Jun 4, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Took in '18 and frankly it was the worst class I've taken. Work is v easy, class is disappointing--humiliated a student who's japanese cause they didn't know the language. Also plays favorites. Tried to make it hard to get an A by nitpicking on me but not others, but my test grades spoke louder. Ofc it's her class/rules, but there was no respect.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
JA180
Grade: C+
Jul 5, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Worst professor I've taken an OCC. She's incredibly rude and patronizing. Gives trick questions and will humiliate students in front of the class. Her expectations are not as clear as she would lead you to believe. I'm an A student but her class brought my GPA down. I really worked hard, it was my only class that semester and still got bad grade.

5.0
5.0
JAPN285
Grade: B-
Aug 5, 2020
Would take again

If you made it this far means you know how hard the class is. Don't be absent, Do your homework, and participate. Group presentations, pop quizzes, and lots of speaking in front of the class. You can do it.

Test heavy
Group projects
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
JA180
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 13, 2020
Wouldn't take again

This was my first time taking her class, but she is really strict about everything. This class lower your grades. There were literally a few people who could get an A. If you don't speak up at least three or four times in her class, you will not be able to get over 90%.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
4.0
JA180
Mar 11, 2021
Wouldn't take again

rude teacher, doesn't seem to like it when students ask questions and will act like you are dumb for asking the question. she's strict and not that good of a teacher, you're better off using duolingo if you are actually trying to learn Japanese. You must participate a lot to get an A which is fine, but she is strict and rude about everything else.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
JAPN180
Mar 11, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Even if you know the material well, she'll take points off for ridiculous reasons. She grades you not on how well you prepare for class or how well you know the material, but rather on how well you follow her instruction. She gets frustrated when students ask questions and plays favoritism. If you want to be graded on your ability,dont take this.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
JAP180
Grade: C
Apr 20, 2021
Wouldn't take again

She will make you work for everything, she will always call on students who raise their hands the most and she will also give more chances and be nice to students who raise their hand to participate more. Also if you wanna take this class be prepared to be rushed on every test and be critiqued on every homework assignment.

Participation matters
Test heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
JAP180
Grade: C
Apr 20, 2021
Wouldn't take again

If you want to take this class for fun, don't. She's a hard grader, she moves through everything quickly, barely anytime to take tests. If you upload anything late she will not accept(probably only once and that's it), and she's not going to be as understanding as most teachers. Don't do it unless you want to fail!

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
J180
Grade: C+
Apr 22, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Prof is super strict. She doesnt give you your grade through canvas but instead you get it every few weeks in a file. If youre taking her zoom class, be prepared to keep your camera on the whole time or else she will call you out for it. She can come off as very rude at times. Passable if you keep up with the material though. Good fricken luck.

1.0
3.0
JAP40433
Apr 22, 2021
Wouldn't take again

She marks you down for everything. The homework assignments take forever and they're worth 1 point. She will give you 0.6% on them if she doesn't like your handwriting. Your grade is lowered if you're tardy and she also marks you down for your participation and makes note of the difficulty of the question. Absolute tyrant of a teacher.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
JAP180
Grade: C+
Apr 27, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Don't. Just don't. There is no reason for you to take this specific professor. It will be one of the worse mistakes you have made. The professor is a tyrant who has zero percent of empathy and will grade based off ridiculous points. single handily removed my love for the Japanese language or any interest of it. Remember, there are other classes.

Participation matters
Test heavy
Tough grader
5.0
5.0
JAPN285
Grade: C+
May 27, 2021
Would take again

Sensei is a really hardworking teacher, more so than I've ever seen a professor at a community college. The amount of work she puts in is unreal and to pass the class you'll need to take it as seriously as she does. She's not unfair, not a tyrant, she just has expectations and is very understanding and sweet. I will never forget her class

Accessible outside class
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
4.0
JPN185
Grade: Not sure yet
Sep 9, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Do not take this class if you do not need it. As mentioned in the other reviews, she is passive aggressive and irrational. Docks off points for ridiculous reasons even if you have a legitimate excuse. It is clear that she has favorites, which is never good. If you do need this class, maybe look at other schools.

Participation matters
Tough grader
4.0
5.0
JAP180
Grade: A
Sep 29, 2021
Wouldn't take again

She runs the class like an old fashioned Japanese highschool class. Kiss those college freedoms goodbye because you're going to be treated like a child. That being said you'll definitely learn the language and learn it well. Super strict rules are because she wants you to learn Japanese business mannerism and ways of thinking.

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
3.0
JAPN180H
Grade: A
Feb 15, 2023
Would take again

I went into this class expecting the worst, however I can't help but think that Kagawa-sensee must have changed. I never found her super demeaning or tyrant-like like others said. She has her expectations in the syllabus, follow them & you will do great in this class. People call her passive-aggressive, but maybe this is a cultural difference imo

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lots of homework
1.0
5.0
JA180
Grade: Rather not say
Feb 22, 2023

To learn a new language, it's important to have an empathetic and understanding Instructor. Kagawa is neither. Yes, Japanese may not be easy but there is no need to be passive-aggressive, discouraging or condescending towards students. She is undeniably the worst instructor I have ever experienced and that is NOT due to cultural difference. Unfair.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lots of homework
5.0
2.0
J180
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 4, 2023
Would take again

Professor Kagawa's expectations and assignments are very clearly stated. Every week there are very short readings and homework assignments. You have 7 days to complete maybe 2 hours of assigned work and then the rest is on you to study in your free time and look over the textbook to supplement your learning. No self-discipline = You wont pass.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
1.0
3.0
J180
Aug 27, 2024

Bad attitude

Tough grader
1.0
5.0
J180
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Sep 9, 2024

She goes way too fast for me and it was very time-consuming. I didn't even get all my textbooks they were sold out and I dropped out.

Lots of homework
3.0
3.0
JAPN280
Grade: A
Dec 20, 2024

I recommend not taking this class... OCC has likely given this poor woman too large of a workload and too small of a salary. I admit that she is very hardworking and organized, however she doesn't take well to push-back. This is reflected in her attitudes to her students and her grading.

Tough grader
5.0
5.0
J180
Grade: A+
Feb 14, 2025
Would take again

Okay so I took this class a long time ago but let me tell you she is an amazing professor. She cares and does not take excuses. Tough grader and high expectations. Honestly it's Japanese and you need to memorize a lot in a short time.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lots of homework
5.0
5.0
J185
Grade: B+
Feb 14, 2025
Would take again

Round 2 - 185 If you are in 185 you took 180. She doesn't lighten up until after the first exam. She wants to see how serious you are. Same as 180 lots of memorization. Keep going study and do your homework. If you do not study you will not pass.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
5.0
5.0
J280
Grade: C+
Feb 14, 2025
Would take again

Sure I got a C but who cares. Kagawa Sensei is awesome. She is only tough to make sure you are serious. Class is hard but she cares for all her students.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lots of homework
5.0
5.0
JAPN285
Grade: C
Feb 14, 2025
Would take again

Got a C but I'm cool with because I did not put in the effort she asked me for. Fun class. 10/10 would do it again.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Group projects
1.0
4.0
JAP185
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 10, 2025

If you do not like to talk in class, or raise your hand to speak up, I would not recommend taking this class, because you could get dropped if you do not follow. Since she is Japanese, sometimes it is hard to understand what she is talking about. If you do not want a strict professor, do not take her.

Participation matters
5.0
3.0
J180
Grade: A
Jun 6, 2025
Would take again

The class requires a lot of assignments and active participation. The professor grades strictly, but if you stay on top of the work and try your best, getting an A is very doable.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lots of homework
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

100%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 34 grades
Most common grades:
A (12)
Drop/Withdrawal (6)
C+ (5)
Grade Distribution
A(16)B(6)C(8)D(6)F(1)A-/B+(3)
Based on 46 reported grades
A: 12
Drop/Withdrawal: 6
C+: 5
A+: 4
Common Tags
Participation matters (32)
Tough grader (19)
Skip class? You won't pass. (16)
Lots of homework (11)
Tough Grader (8)
Clear grading criteria (6)
LOTS OF HOMEWORK (4)
Get ready to read (3)
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285

5.0

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JAPANESE185

5.0

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JAPA180

5.0

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JPNS180TO285

5.0

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JPNS185280

5.0

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JAPANESE280

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5.0

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5.0

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