This course will be taught entirely in English

This course aims to introduce students to three selected topics in modern Southeast Asian history and culture, from late 19th century to early 21st century. Through weekly discussions, students are challenged to reexamine the cultural and historical contexts of these topics. Students will also need to critique and reflect on the topics discussed and formulate personal insights on the topics at hand. While prior knowledge in Southeast Asian history and culture is not required, some background knowledge will be helpful. By the end of the course, students should possess not only a general understanding of the complex nature of these historical events but also the ability to think critically regarding history and culture. 

The course will be conducted entirely in English. Students will be required to participate in classroom and online discussions in English. The course will also involve extensive reading of academic papers/works, and writing of academic reports. 

Although the course is primarily an online course where students study on their own with instructor guidance and course materials (Asynchronous 線上不同步授課), there are also In-person (實體課程) and Synchronous (線上同步授課) online sessions throughout the semester. 

The topics to be covered in this course includes the following:

1. Philippines Independence and the Philippines-American War 

2. Malaysia - Singapore Divorce

3. Timor Leste Referendum and its Aftermath

Tentative schedule of the course is as follows:

Week 1 Introduction (In-Person)

Week 2 Philippines (In-Person)

Week 3 Philippines (Asynchronous)

Week 4 Philippines (Asynchronous)

Week 5 Philippines (Synchronous)

Week 6 Editorial Writing (Asynchronous)

Week 7 National Holiday - No Class

Week 8 Malaysia/Singapore (Asynchronous)

Week 9 Malaysia/Singapore (In-Person)

Week 10 Malaysia/Singapore (Asynchronous)

Week 11 Malaysia/Singapore (Synchronous)

Week 12 Editorial Writing (Asynchronous)

Week 13 Timor Leste (In-Person)

Week 14 Timor Lest (In-Person)

Week 15 Timor Leste (Asynchronous)

Week 16 Timor Lest (Synchronous)