LANG 3026 Chinese 307: The Cultural Context of China

This is an archived copy of the 2022-2023 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit https://hbook.westernsydney.edu.au.

Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 100067

Coordinator Lijiang Zhao Opens in new window

Description This subject provides a brief overview of Chinese culture and examines the cultural interchanges of which it has been a part throughout history. Students will analyse the effects of these cultural contacts, both positive and negative. They will also evaluate and critique relevant cultural issues, from a comparative perspective. This process will increase students' understanding of the cultural identity of China, and it will also enable them to appreciate the importance of outside cultural influences, thereby reinforcing an open and mature attitude towards multiculturalism. The subject will be conducted in Chinese.

School Humanities & Comm Arts

Discipline Eastern Asian Languages

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 1 10cp

Check your HECS Band contribution amount via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 3 subject

Assumed Knowledge

Chinese 204 or equivalent.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
  1. demonstrate understanding of the essence of Chinese traditional culture and Chinese cultural identity;
  2. identify the cultural exchanges that have taken place between Chinese and other peoples;
  3. explain the impact of Chinese culture on other cultures and its continuing relevance to the contemporary world;
  4. demonstrate an understanding of how other cultures have affected Chinese culture, up to the present;
  5. assess cultural contact situations with an open and mature attitude towards multiculturalism;
  6. apply sound analytical and critical thinking skills while dealing with cultural issues.

Subject Content

The essence of traditional Chinese culture and Chinese cultural identity;
The impact of Chinese culture on other cultures: great inventions, the explorers Zhang Qian and Zheng He, and overseas students;
The impact of other cultures on Chinese culture: Buddhism, Marco Polo, the Christian missionaries, the Opium War;
Chinese culture and Chinese people through Western eyes;
Western culture and Westerners through Chinese eyes;
Chinese subcultures in Taiwan, Hong Kong and overseas;
A brief history of Chinese migration to Australia.

Inherent Requirements

There are inherent requirements for this subject that you must meet in order to successfully complete this subject. Make sure you read and understand the requirements for your subject online.

Inherent Requirements

Assessment

The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.

Type Length Percent Threshold Individual/Group Task
Presentation 10-15 minutes (including discussion) 30 N Individual
Essay 1500-2000 words 30 N Individual
Final Exam 2 hours 40 N Individual

Prescribed Texts

  • A Subject Reader prepared by the school. Students to supply Chinese newspapers and magazines.

Teaching Periods

Structures that include subject