121-103 Australia in Asia

Credit Points

Coordinator

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

This subject will critically evaluate the question 'is Australia part of Asia?'. It will do this through a range of examples which show the ways in which Asia and Australia are linked as well as examples which point to the possible limits of Australia being accepted as an Asian nation. The themes examined include: historical, cultural and geographical diversities of "Asia"; trade links, geopolitical agreements and treaties, newly industrialised nations, reforming socialist economies, tourism, immigration, urbanisation, resource management and community and environmental aid. By the end of the course students who complete this subject should: develop an understanding of the issues relating to Australia's efforts to re-position itself in relation to Asia; understand more about the diversity of the Asian region and the nature of the region's relationships with Australia; understand the various ways in which Asia and Australia are linked (through trade, immigration, international relations, aid); understand more of the social, economic and environmental issues facing the Asian region; develop a familiarity with some of the current debates in geography such as globalisation, political and economic restructuring, urbanisation and ideas of national and regional identity; develop various skills used in the discipline of geography (analysis of data, interpretation skills, critical thinking).

Assessment

One 90-minute examination at the end of the semester; an essay of up to 2000 words; laboratory and seminar assignments. Weighting of assessment items will be announced at the beginning of the semester.