AST 101 Introduction to Japanese I (JPN)

Instructor: Nobuko Patton

Prerequisite: None

Offered: Typically every Fall Term
Introduction to Japanese as it is spoken in Japan today. Speaking and listening comprehension will be emphasized.

AST 122 Introduction to China (HIS)

Instructor: Robert Foster

Offered: Typically every Fall Term

China has one of the foundational civilizations in human history. It gave rise to social structures, political systems, and philosophies that deeply influenced the development of East Asia. Through close reading of documents, focused analytical writing, open discussion, and lecture, students will develop their own understanding of the evolution of China from its Neolithic origins to its present status as a world power. World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective.

AST 232 Religions of China and Japan (REL)

Instructor: Jeffrey L. Richey

Prerequisite: GSTR 110

Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered in 2012-13)

A study of the principal religious traditions of East Asia: Buddhism, Confucianism, Shintō, and Taoism. The course includes readings in the classical primary texts of each tradition as well as attention to ritual and practice. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective.

Instructor: Martha Beagle

Prerequisite: PEH 100 or permission of instructor

Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered in 2012-13)

Because of its movement and mind/body focus, the benefits of Tai Chi on dynamic balance, relaxation, and sustained mental attention have been recognized by those who engage in all kinds of activities.  Students of Tai Chi will learn the Yang (short form) style of Tai Chi as well as the mind-body connection in accordance with the principles and techniques of Tai Chi to help enrich one’s life.  Tai Chi is scientifically designed to help all students maintain a healthy body through stretching, breathing and meditation.

AST 401 Senior Seminar-Asian Studies

Instructor: Robert Foster

Prerequisite: Senior standing, or permission of instructor

Through common readings and independent work, students will explore various views of Asia, past and present, from within Asia and from without. Through the common readings, students will deal with central questions regarding geographic visions of Asia, the reality or unreality of “Asia,” key issues for the region, etc. Through regular presentations of ongoing individual projects, students will learn from each other about diverse Asia-related issues. For example, one day, students might all read an address written by the President of the American Association of Asian Studies, followed by individual presentations on aspects of Shinto religion, followed by the politics of the partition of India, followed by current concerns with North Korea. The course is intentionally open-ended and free-flowing both to encompass specific student interests and to develop the ability to think broadly about Asia.

CHI 101 Introduction to Chinese I

Instructor: Vanessa Chi-Jung Lee

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow.

Introduction to Chinese as it is spoken in China today. Speaking and listening comprehension will be emphasized and the Chinese written language introduced.

CHI 103 Intermediate Chinese I

Instructor: Vanessa Chi-Jung Lee

Prerequisite: CHI 102 with a grade of C or higher, or permission of instructor Beginning of the two-term intermediate level of Chinese language instruction. Continued development of Chinese oral/aural and written communication skills.