ATS2039 - Understanding modern China - 2018

This unit will introduce students to key concepts used in the study of modern China and to academic writings on modern China in English and in English translation. It will cover a range of topics on Chinese culture, history and politics as these are discussed and written about in English and Chinese. It will also examine and compare Chinese and Western styles of academic writing and research methods. Questions of cultural translation are central to this unit.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be expected to have acquired:

1. A basic understanding of key features of modern Chinese history with reference to: East-West perspectives on Chinese Studies; May Fourth concepts of enlightenment, democracy, science and nationalism; the Cultural Revolution and the renewal of humanist values in post-Mao China
2. A good knowledge of major cultural, social and political changes in twentieth century China
3. Library and web-based research skills relevant to modern Chinese studies
4. Skills of analysis and interpretation in the study of China through exposure to the textual sources used in this unit.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Chinese studies