Teaching Goals for a Comprehensive Chinese Culture Course (English Version)199

This document outlines the teaching goals for a comprehensive course on Chinese culture designed for English-speaking learners. The course aims to provide students with a nuanced and multifaceted understanding of Chinese civilization, moving beyond simplistic stereotypes and fostering critical engagement with its rich history, complex social structures, and vibrant artistic expressions. The course will achieve this by employing a variety of pedagogical approaches, including lectures, discussions, films, primary source readings, guest speakers, and interactive activities.
I. Knowledge and Understanding: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

A. Historical Context:
Demonstrate a chronological understanding of major periods in Chinese history, from ancient dynasties to the present day, highlighting key turning points and their lasting impacts.
Analyze the development of key institutions such as the imperial bureaucracy, the Confucian social order, and the impact of major historical events like the Opium Wars and the Cultural Revolution.
Compare and contrast different dynasties, identifying continuities and changes in political, social, economic, and cultural patterns.
Critically evaluate historical narratives and sources, recognizing biases and perspectives within historical accounts.
Understand the significance of key historical figures and their contributions to Chinese culture and society.

B. Philosophical and Religious Traditions:
Explain the core tenets of Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism, and their influence on Chinese thought and practice.
Analyze the interplay and interaction between these major philosophical and religious traditions throughout Chinese history.
Discuss the impact of these traditions on Chinese social ethics, political systems, art, and literature.
Compare and contrast these traditions with other major world religions and philosophies.
Understand the role of folk religion and ancestor veneration in Chinese society.

C. Social Structures and Customs:
Describe the complexities of Chinese family structures and kinship systems, including generational relationships and hierarchical roles.
Analyze the evolution of social norms and customs throughout Chinese history, considering factors such as urbanization, globalization, and economic reform.
Understand the significance of social etiquette and its role in interpersonal relationships.
Discuss the impact of social and economic inequalities on Chinese society.
Explore the role of gender, class, and ethnicity in shaping social experiences.

D. Artistic and Literary Expressions:
Identify and analyze various forms of Chinese art, including calligraphy, painting, sculpture, pottery, and architecture, relating them to their historical and cultural contexts.
Discuss the major themes and stylistic characteristics of Chinese literature, including poetry, prose, drama, and fiction.
Explore the development of different artistic and literary movements throughout Chinese history.
Understand the role of art and literature in reflecting and shaping Chinese culture and society.
Develop critical skills in analyzing and interpreting works of Chinese art and literature.

E. Contemporary China:
Analyze the significant social, political, and economic changes that have occurred in China since the late 20th century.
Discuss the impact of globalization and economic reform on Chinese society and culture.
Examine the challenges and opportunities facing contemporary China.
Understand the complexities of China's role in the international community.
Critically evaluate different perspectives on contemporary Chinese society.


II. Skills and Abilities: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

A. Critical Thinking and Analysis:
Analyze complex cultural issues and evaluate different perspectives.
Formulate informed opinions and support them with evidence.
Interpret primary and secondary sources critically.
Identify biases and assumptions in historical narratives and cultural representations.

B. Research and Information Literacy:
Conduct effective research using a variety of sources, including academic journals, books, and online resources.
Evaluate the credibility and reliability of information sources.
Synthesize information from multiple sources to develop a comprehensive understanding of a topic.

C. Communication and Presentation:
Communicate effectively in written and oral forms about aspects of Chinese culture.
Present information clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.
Engage in respectful and productive discussions about complex cultural issues.

D. Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness:
Demonstrate an understanding of and respect for cultural diversity.
Avoid stereotyping and generalizations about Chinese culture.
Engage with Chinese culture in a thoughtful and respectful manner.


III. Assessment: Student learning will be assessed through a variety of methods, including essays, presentations, quizzes, exams, and participation in class discussions. The assessment will focus on both knowledge acquisition and the development of critical thinking and communication skills. The aim is to evaluate the students' understanding of the course material and their ability to apply this knowledge in new and creative ways. The weighting of each assessment component will be clearly outlined in the course syllabus.

2025-03-19

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