ATS2040 - Understanding contemporary China - 2018

The unit introduces students to perspectives on contemporary Chinese culture and society as presented in academic publications, social commentary, media reports and on the Chinese Internet. It covers key topics in cultural studies, politics and social studies, as these are discussed and written about in English and Chinese. It examines and compares Chinese and Western views on contemporary issues in China. Research methods and skills relevant to the study of contemporary China are an important feature of this unit.

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

1. A basic understanding of key issues in contemporary Chinese society and politics, focused on (i) the concepts of trust and justice; (ii) media reporting in and about present-day China; (iii) Chinese nationalism and patriotism; and (iv) public culture and debate in the Chinese-speaking world;
2. Library and web-based research skills relevant to modern Chinese studies;
3. A good knowledge of the academic literature relevant to studies of contemporary China;
4. Skills of analysis and interpretation in the study of China through exposure to the materials 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