This course locates itself firmly within these debates and provides a broad and well-balanced perspective on understanding contemporary Chinese culture. This unit examines media and social issues in China at the turn of the twenty-first century. The unit then proceeds to examine how various social issues are addressed in the general media. China's burgeoning consumer society is also explored through an examination of consumer desires and advertising. The unit is research-orientated, focusing on primary source materials in English.
Asian languages are a high national priority.
Chinese is one of the most important languages for Australia's expanding cultural and trading relations with the Asian region. China has one of the fastest growing economies in Asia. There is a growing demand for graduates with a knowledge of Chinese and China. Many other potential employers including business and the media are also expanding their recruitment of such graduates. Chinese is one of the major Asian languages being introduced over the next few years in primary and secondary schools, and is forecast as being the language of greatest demand for the foreseeable future.