Leader: Prof Ross Mouer

Offered

Berwick First semester 2008 (Day)
Caulfield First semester 2008 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit is structured around several modules and incorporates contributions from the disciplines of anthropology, sociology, cultural studies, economics, gender studies, history, linguistics and politics as relevant to the understanding of social change. After considering the problems inherent in 'Asia' as a concept, it will examine some of the following topics in a comparative manner. The exact selection of topics to be covered in any given offering of the subject may vary from year to year.

Objectives

Students successfully completing this subject will have acquired:

1. A basic exposure to a range of approaches to understanding Asian societies and cultures.

2. A grounding in key facts about the state of private and public spheres of socio-cultural life in countries where change is occurring at a very rapid place.

3. A familiarity with some methodologies used for furthering our knowledge about Asian societies.

4. The ability to situate an understanding of the relationship of societies and economies to each other within a global/local context which can enhance our appreciation and understanding of the situation in other societies.

Assessment

Major Essay (2500 words): 50%
Test (1 hour, 1000 word equivalent): 25%
Seminar presentation (10 minutes, 1000 word equivalent): 25%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 1 hour lecture and 1 x 1 hour seminar) per week