AsiaAs rising powers on the global stage, the regions of East, Southeast, and South Asia include some of the fastest growing economies in the world. In order to better understand these countries' current growth and success and what it means for their peoples, it is necessary to first study their histories and values. Their influence on other regions is not new; over the centuries, Asia has influenced philosophical thought, religion, art, and commerce in much of the world, and these diverse nations continue to have a marked impact on evolving civilizations today. With a growing immigrant population from Asia here in the United States, it is also becoming increasingly important for students not only to understand the culture and experiences of their peers, but to realize how Asian immigrants have contributed to life in the U.S. Due to the cultural variation in this broad region, Primary Source offers programs that look at China, Japan, Korea, India, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Teachers gain unique perspectives through the use of primary sources and participation in study tours abroad. Seminars 2011-2012East Asian Literature: Ancient and Modern Voices Five-Day Seminar Series The diverse and vibrant literatures of East Asia are a window into the cultures of the region. In this course we delve into favorite teachable pieces of literature from China, Japan, and Korea, comparing and contrasting their writing traditions. We'll read excerpts from classics such as Journey to the West and The Tale of Genji and find their resonance in contemporary film, literature, and popular culture. Though texts in translation are the core of our course, we'll also explore the best of young adult and children's books inspired by East Asian stories and settings. Participants will take an in-depth look at literary forms including short stories, novels, poetry, myth, folktales, and memoir. Through the generosity of the American Repertory Theater, a theatrical performance based on a work of literary non-fiction, the world premiere of Wild Swans, is a special feature of the course. Open to all K-12 educators Global Education Strategies: U.S.-China School Exchanges One-Day Conference In November 2009, President Barack Obama announced the "100,000 Strong Initiative" to increase the number and diversity of U.S. students studying in China. In order to prepare for the future, both the U.S. and Chinese governments have endorsed this objective. As part of this initiative, this conference will focus on the why, what, and how of pre-collegiate school-to-school exchange programs between the United States and China. Conference participants will share the benefits of such school-to-school programs. This program is funded by Boston University's Center for the Study of Asia. Especially for educators in grades 6-12. Rice in Asia: Cultivation and Cultures One-Day Workshop Throughout Asia rice is more than just food. It is central to the way of life, molding human history and geography over thousands of years and influencing cultural traditions, religion, literature, and, of course, diet. In this workshop, teachers will begin to explore rice cultivation throughout Asia and see how this one grain can be a catalyst for K-8 interdisciplinary learning. Broader global issues including population growth, environmental impact, and hunger can also be illuminated through the lens of rice cultivation. Especially for educators in grades K-7 The Enduring Legacy of Ancient China The remarkable richness and endurance of Chinese civilization will be the central focus for this online course, which will explore the long period from the emergence of China's earliest civilizations to the end of the dynastic phase in 1911. Open to all K-12 educators Changing China: History and Culture Since 1644 The complex history of modern China and its unique place on the world stage will be the central focus for this online course, which will explore the period from the Qing Dynasty and the decline of dynastic China to the present day. Recommended especially for educators in grades 6-12
Taking Students to China: Building Opportunities for Deep Learning Webinar Going to China can be a transformative experience for students by reinforcing classroom learning and sparking new modes of inquiry. Educators who are planning to take students to China or who are considering doing so will learn why this is an exciting undertaking and how they can maximize the learning outcomes. Questions about working with students, parents and schools, how to organize the tour, and how to create an incredible travel experience for the participants will be discussed. Especially for educators in grades 6-12. Through Hiroshima Eyes: Reflections and Art of an A-Bomb Survivor Late-Afternoon Program What was it like to be in Hiroshima when the A-Bomb was dropped? This exhibit (at the Harvard Graduate School of Education) and talk (Cambridge Friends Meeting House) will provide a unique opportunity to connect with that place and time through the artworks and personal testimony of Junko Kayashige, a survivor. This program will also explore the background context of that historical era, examine the meaning for us today, and discuss implications for curriculum development. Free and open to the public. The registration deadline was Wednesday, September 28, 2011. Limited seats are still available in some programs. To register contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
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Educating for Global Understanding
