Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2020 - GA 301 D100

Asia-Canada Identities: Experiences and Perspectives (3)

Class Number: 5502

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2020: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    45 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

This course will explore the experience of Asian immigrants and their children, focusing in particular on social and cultural aspects. Students with credit for ASC 301 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course focuses on Asian Canadian cultural activism. It will explore how Asian Canadians represent their histories, experiences and identities through various forms of cultural practices and artistic forms, in particular through literature, film, visual arts and publication. After introducing

After introducing some concepts, themes and perspectives in discussing Asian Canadian culture, we will examine Asian Canadian cultural activism through a variety of sources: memoir and fiction, film and visual art works, art exhibitions and cultural festival materials, interviews with artists, as well as internet/web sites, literary and arts  magazines and newspapers. The learning activities include narrative analysis, class discussions, a guest lecture, a field trip, and a group project. Among the themes/ issues considered are the following:

  • What kind of identities and experiences have Asian Canadian artists expressed? How are these experiences and identities related with the local community and national history?
  • How do Asian Canadians use different media to represent their identities and experiences?  What are the innovative and creative perspectives they have explored?
  • Is there an “Asian Canadian Culture”? If so, what role does it play in personal, communal and national formation?

Active participation in seminars and group presentations, and developing a major creative project or research paper are required for successful completion of the course.

Grading

  • Attendance and Participation 15%
  • Canvas (online) Discussion 20%
  • Field Trip Report 20%
  • Presentation 15%
  • Term Paper/Final Project 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Xiaoping Li, Voices Rising: Asian Canadian Cultural Activism, UBC Press, 2007  (e-book accessible online via SFU library)

Craig Anderi & Mieko Ouchi, Shepherd's Pie and Sushi (1998)

Mina Shum, Double Happiness, 1994

Joy Kogawa, Obasan. Toronto: Penguin Books, 1981.

Ricepaper: Asian Canadian Arts and Culture

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS