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Language and Power in Asian Societies (ASIA10001)

Undergraduate level 1Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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This subject examines the intimate relationship between language and society in the historical and contemporary contexts of three internationally strategic regions: East Asia, insular Southeast Asia, and the Arabic world. It will explore recurring themes such as

  • The relationship of language to power, hegemony and political struggle
  • The effect of nationalism on language. language as a means for creating social organisation and hierarchy
  • The relationship between minority and majority languages and cultures, and
  • The role of the media, popular culture and literacy in contemporary linguistic and social relations

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should:

  • Gain an understanding of the political and cultural significance of language in societies in Asia and the Middle East
  • Master basic level essay writing
  • Develop skills to critically read scholarly literature and synthesise this with information form lectures.

Generic skills

  • Acquire written communication skills through essay writing and seminar discussion
  • Show attention to detail through essay preparation and writing
  • Acquire time management and planning skills through managing and organising workloads for recommended reading, essay and assignment completion
  • Acquire public speaking skills through tutorial and seminar discussion and class presentations
  • Learn critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining strength of an argument
  • Be able to research through competent use of the library, and other information sources and the definition of areas of inquiry and methods of research
  • Be able to think in theoretical terms through lectures, tutorial discussions, essay writing and engagement in the methodologies of the humanities and social sciences.

Last updated: 12 October 2024