Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - GA 202 D100

Studies in Global Asia (3)

Asian Borderlands

Class Number: 3175

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    15 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces students to a topic in Global Asian Studies not otherwise covered in depth by regularly scheduled courses. Sample topics include South Asian diasporas; Global Asia in Vancouver; refugee experiences; or Korean culture. This course may be repeated for credit only when a different topic is taught. Students with credit for ASC 202 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

Asian Borderlands

This course explores the borderlands of Asia as historically, culturally, and politically significant spaces. Rather than treating borders as fixed lines between nation-states, we will approach borderlands as dynamic places shaped by empire, colonialism, nationalism, migration, trade, development, militarization, and cross-border forms of belonging.

Using interdisciplinary and site-specific case studies, students will explore how Asian borderlands have been shaped by transnational connections, colonial aftermaths, identity formation, contested sovereignties, and state border policies. The course will pay particular attention to how borderland communities, including Indigenous peoples and ethnic minorities, navigate, negotiate, refuse, and rework the borders that divide their lands, communities, and histories.

Through discussion, reflection, group facilitation, and a final research-based case study project, students will develop analytical and comparative approaches to understanding Asia’s interconnected borderland worlds.

Grading

  • Attendance and Engagement 20%
  • Borderlands Map/Case Study 15%
  • Reflection Essay 15%
  • Group Discussion Facilitation 15%
  • Final Research Project 35%

NOTES:

This course counts towards the Global Asia Minor program. Reach out to the advisor (gaadv@sfu.ca) to learn more!

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All course materials will be available on Canvas.


Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.