Asian Studies
Australians are increasingly becoming aware of their geographical, economic, demographic and cultural links with Asia. The study of Asia provides a valuable contribution to the education of Australian individuals in terms of an understanding and appreciation of Asian Cultures. This course will explore the evolution and dynamism of Asian societies, and emphasize the interrelationship of history, philosophy, beliefs, values, politics, economics and the environment. The students will learn the diversity of Asian cultures, and they will gain an understanding of the forces which shape societies, and are encouraged to reflect on their own cultural experience, and on factors which may influence Australia's future relationship with Asia.
Asian Studies courses equip students with skills of independent inquiry, investigation, interpretation and communication. They also encourage the development of tolerance towards other cultures for their future working and personal lives.
Prerequisites: None
Units for study may include:
1. The Legacies of Cultural Exchange
Students learn about aspects of North and South Korea or Vietnam, such as the traditional characteristics of the people; social structures; clothing, food, architecture and religion; political systems; the Korean or Vietnam war and subsequent changes to national borders and identity; contemporary relations with major power blocs and neighbours.
2. From Art to Action
Art is a product of culture and it is to be understood in consideration of its form, history, symbolism and the cultural context in which it was created. This unit enables students to study Asian visual, performing and literary arts. Students analyse contemporary art from two countries and the ways in which art highlights the personal responses of people to social issues such as can be found in the contemporary art of China and Indonesia. Terrorism sends a message to the world that cannot be ignored. What shaped or generated these desires? What is the message being sent, and what is the message being received? Students consider how intercultural communication is critical for peace in the world.
3. Cultural Identity
This unit enables students to learn about concepts of ethnicity, nationalism, culture (including youth culture) and multiculturalism. They also study minority groups and their struggle for recognition - in China, Tibetans, and in Indonesia, Acehnese, West Irianese, East Timorese and Chinese. The students also study cultural change and popular culture in Japan.
4. Australian/Asian Perspectives
This unit examines Australians doing business in Asia and Asians doing business in Australia and it explores the ways in which these have changed over time with changes of government. It describes key features of Australia’s migration policy and identify the impact of Asian migration to Australia, such as the rise of ethnic gangs, drug trafficking and refugees.
5. Understanding the Islamic Viewpoint
This unit examines the religion of Islam in Central Asia (Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan). It explores the role of ideology (eg fundamentalism in Afghanistan) and the causes of and responses to Islamic. It also explores contemporary issues such as the role of women in Pakistan and Indonesia.
6. Comparison and Contrasts
Students undertake case studies such as: Royalty and common folk in Malaysia; comparison of economic development and standards of living in various Asian countries; oil issues – wealth or war; and the future of Asian countries such as China, Japan and India.