Module MLAC1001: Modern East Asian History

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures

MLAC1001: Modern East Asian History

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• This module introduces students to modern East Asian history, with a particular focus on China and Japan, from the era of the First Opium War to the end of the Cold War (ca. 1840s to early 1990s). Using textbook reading as a background, the module places its main emphasis on imparting an understanding of key changes in historiographical trends (e.g., modernization, Marxism, etc.) paired with the analysis of canonical primary sources in translation. This will be fostered through classes that prioritize student discussion of close reading over lecture. After two introductory weeks on China and Japan respectively, the module’s geographic target will alternate fortnightly. Students will complete the module with a firm grasp of the fundamental forces shaping modern East Asia, and the principal differing ways in which historians have variously conceptualized these forces.
• • To introduce students to the history of modern East Asia with a focus on China and Japan
• • To instil in students a grasp of key historiographical trends that have shaped scholarly writing on modern East Asia
• • To impart skills of historical primary source analysis through close reading and discussion

Content

• Modern East Asian history from the era of the First Opium War to the end of the Cold War (ca. 1840s to early 1990s).
• Close reading of key historiography and historical primary sources in translation.

Learning Outcomes

• Have attained an understanding of the fundamental forces shaping modern East Asia.
• Have a firm understanding of the different historiographical approaches to modern East Asian history.

• Have improved skills of close reading and historical analysis of primary sources in translation, in particular the ability to contextualise adequately and critically engage with secondary and primary sources.

• Have improved written and oral communication skills.
• Develop the ability to work independently, with effective reading and research skills.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Lectures will offer background context but primarily prioritize active student discussion of assigned historiography.
• Most seminars will be used for the close reading and discussion of historical primary sources.
• Select seminars will be reserved for a) preparation for assessments; b) in-class assessments.
• Students will be assessed on a combination of a) two short essays written in class; b) a final 2-hour in-person assignment.
• The two-class essays will be supported by the preceding seminar sessions which will scaffold the assessment for the students.
• The module will be taught in English.
• Students are expected to attend all lectures and seminars, prepare appropriately for classes, and participate actively in discussions.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Formative assessment for this module will comprise student-led group discussions.

■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.