AMG5382 - Contemporary issues in Asia - 2019

This unit explores the major transformations in Asia, a vast geographical area with boundaries that are fluid and often contested. Given the enormous diversity and scope of Asia, the unit adopts a thematic approach to discuss key political, economic, social and cultural transitions and transformations within selected regions such as Southeast Asia. While a closer study of contemporary issues in any particular region provides a measure of coherence to the unit, students are encouraged to consider the broader relevance of the political, economic and social shifts studied in the unit to other parts of Asia.

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Identify issues of contemporary importance to particular communities in Asia as the region continues to experience the effects of previous and on-going transformations in politics, the economy, law, society, and culture;
2. Analyse the complex forces driving these contemporary transitions and transformations through case studies covering domestic political reform, regional institution building, international relations, migration, urbanisation, the rise of civil society and social movements, as well as cultural shifts;
3. Compare the reactions and responses to these transitions/transformations of different actors, for instance, governments, communities and groups directly affected by these shifts, other social groups including NGOs, firms and international organizations;
4. Apply multi-disciplinary approaches to the study of Asia; and
5. Produce reports, policy briefs, position papers, essays and other works that reflect skills in interpreting texts, writing critically and persuasively, and crafting and defending sound arguments.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 288 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

Communications and media studies