Asian Civilisations and Science

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

Usually 75 points of first year study in any discipline.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject examines the development of science as a cultural phenomenon in Asian contexts. It is taught through contemporary and historical case studies. We examine ways sciences 'came to life' in particular places at particular times as modern Asian endeavours. Examining particular instances, students will better understand contemporary sciences as a global phenomenon. Studies will reveal some of the characteristics and properties of the scientific enterprise in contemporary and historical Asian contexts.

• Analyse the multiple roles played by the sciences in Asian modernities;
• Develop understandings of contemporary sciences as cultural phenomena;
• Recognise the heterogeneous origins of contemporary sciences in modern Asian societies.

Two essays of 2000 words, each worth 50% (essay 1 submitted in week 7, essay 2 submitted after SWOT VAC).

A subject reader will be available for purchase from the University Bookroom at the start of semester.

The Hungry Tide (Useful pre-reading: A Ghosh), Harper Collins 2004

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

• Bachelor of Biomedicine
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Environments
• Bachelor of Music
• Bachelor of Science
• Bachelor of Engineering

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

• develop skills in written and oral communication;

• conduct independent research;

• make appropriate use of primary and secondary sources in mounting an argument;

• form defensible judgements based on a critical evaluation of conflicting arguments.

This subject is available for science credit for students enrolled in the BSc (pre-2008 degree only), or a combined BSc course (except for the BA/BSc).