Seminars
China's Cultural Revolution (March 4-April 1, 2025)
Mao Zedong initiated the Cultural Revolution in 1966 to eliminate threats to his power and vision. The turmoil he sparked hammered the party-state, set in motion fierce struggles that destroyed careers and ended lives, threatened the economy and ended with military domination of state offices, schools and factories. To reduce urban strife, millions of young people were dispatched to the countryside to learn from the peasants. On top of this, leaders worried about foreign threats. Only Mao’s death in 1976 brought the Cultural Revolution to a close.
Rituals and Objects in Japanese History (Feb. 20-March 27, 2025)
This course will use objects from art, industry, technology, and war to consider the richness of the Japanese past. From court ceremonies to samurai rituals on the battlefield, from daily gift exchanges to Buddhist mortuary markers, Japanese communities have expressed their dreams, fears, power, and imagination using material culture and rituals focusing on objects. Join us to explore Japan’s history through the study of things.
Modern Japanese Literature (April 22 - May 20, 2025)
Ignite your teaching with our dynamic seminar on modern Japanese literature, designed specifically for K-12 educators! Dive into Japan's rich history and culture from the Meiji era to today, and learn practical strategies to engage your students. This seminar offers valuable resources, interactive techniques, and insights into key literary figures and works.
Taiwan and the World (Thursdays, May 1 - May 29, 2025)
This seminar for educators provides an in-depth exploration of Taiwan's rich history and diverse cultural landscape. Covering periods from early indigenous cultures to modern democratic governance, the course offers insights into Taiwan's unique political status and its significant technological advancements. Participants will delve into the dynamic intersections of culture, economy, and environmental literature, with a special focus on Taiwan's geopolitical narratives and ecological contexts.
East Asia: Origins To 1800 (Mondays, February 24 - May 12, 2025)
This seminar for educators covers the history and cultures of East Asia from the neolithic past to 1800. The course includes an overview of the region’s geography and demography, early ideologies as well as links between China, Korea and Japan. Participants will examine social hierarchies and expectations through literature and art, and explore the technological breakthroughs, economic rise and political systems of the region. Those teaching history, social studies, art and literature will find the course particularly relevant. Priority given to teachers in California.
East Asia Since 1800 (September 16 - December 9, 2024)
This seminar is intended for all k-12 educators eager to bring more of East Asian history and culture to their students. It also explores what makes the region so dynamic and important today. This accredited seminar is complimentary for qualified teachers. This seminar is completely online. It includes recorded lectures, assigned readings and live discussion sessions via Zoom.
Understanding Korean Society Through Popular Culture (August 20- September 24, 2024)
Discover the Korean Wave's impact in our seminar for educators! Learn how Korean films, K-pop, and other music genres captivate students worldwide. Explore the popularity of K-dramas and Korean TV shows. Delve into Webtoons, K-sports, and K-esports, bridging tradition and modern entertainment. Equip yourself with insights to engage and inspire your students with Korea's vibrant culture!
Exploring East Asian Visual Culture (July 29 – August 2, 2024)
Japanese Classical Literature (Tuesdays, April 30 - May 28, 2024)
We cordially invite K-12 educators to join us in a hybrid seminar that will introduce you to the rich world of classical Japanese literature.
East Asian Foodways Across Borders (Tuesdays, March 12- April 23,2024)
In our five-week workshop, we will assess how foodways in East Asia have changed continuously through interactions among people across cultures and over time.
