Taiwan Today: Society, Media, and Trends
Course Description
Summary
In this course, students will explore contemporary Taiwanese society, one of Asia’s safest, happiest, and most progressive, through audio, video, and print media. They will examine everyday life, social trends, and Taiwan’s political landscape, including women’s 42% representation in the legislature, the rise of single women keeping pets, and Taiwan as the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage, all while developing Mandarin skills in context.
Through discussions and activities, students will analyze how media, societal values, and global influences shape Taiwanese culture and compare these trends with China, Japan, Korea, and the West. Students will develop skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Mandarin and create their own cultural or media projects.
A course pack of Mandarin materials will be provided.
Learning Outcomes
- By the end of this course, students will be able to:
1. Describe key aspects of contemporary Taiwanese society, including social trends, political participation, and lifestyle.
2. Analyze the impact of media, global influences, and political systems on Taiwanese culture.
3. Observe and interpret cultural and social phenomena in Taiwan, such as women’s roles in society, pet culture, and progressive legislation.
4. Compare cultural and social trends between Taiwan, China, and other East Asian countries, as well as Western contexts.
5. Communicate insights effectively in Mandarin Chinese, using authentic materials from media, music, and everyday life.
6. Create original cultural or media projects that reflect understanding of contemporary Taiwanese society and its global connections.
Prerequisites
At least 2 term at college level
Please contact the faculty member : glin@bennington.edu
Cross List
- Cultural Studies and Languages
- Design
- Film & Video
- History
- Instrumental
- Media Arts
- Music History
- Society, Culture, & Thought