Exploring China through the Experiences of its Millennial Generation

Description

Since Mao’s death and Deng Xiaoping’s nationwide experiment with “socialism with Chinese characteristics,” Chinese society has gone through dramatic changes. How can we wrap our heads around these ongoing changes, and then convey the pace, scale and implications to our students?

In order to tackle this enormous topic in 20 short hours, this seminar zoomed in on the changing role, behavior and expectations of the millennial generation in both urban and rural China. It explored the shift in ancient Confucian family roles as rural young adults leave their homes (and parents and pre-school children) to join the largest experiment in urbanization and migration in human history. Topics included:

• Social media
• The expanded role of citizen participation
• Growing economic opportunities
• Declining environmental health

Through readings, movie clips and class discussion, teachers gained the knowledge necessary to support their students in reading behind the headlines, breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions, and distinguishing between fact and opinion.

Details

This seminar was offered concurrently in Bellingham and Tacoma, WA

Leader

Tese Wintz Neighbor

Books

View this collection on Goodreads.

Benefits

• 20 OSPI clock hours (free) or two 400-level UW credits (for a fee of approx. $240)
• the books listed above and course materials
• $100 stipend
• subscription to Education about Asia