At the University of Michigan, Asian/Pacific Islander American student participation in co-curricular cultural performance is showcased in at least two ways: 1) ethnic culture night shows produced by Asian American student organizations; and 2) dedicated performing groups, some of which enter intercollegiate competitions. How does knowledge and analysis of these activities contribute to scholarship on student identity and the functions of these activities in the context of student life in higher education?
We will document campus A/PIA shows and performing groups, and the student communities who produce them, through attendance at scheduled events in Winter 2023, compiling collections of relevant memorabilia, and reaching out to past and present participants. We will combine discussions on performances with insights from assigned readings on Asian American students in higher education.
Course requirements:
- Two descriptive accounts of performance events based on attendance
- Two brief written commentaries on staged performances
- A Semi-Guided Reading Journal on assigned readings
- Two brief Synthesis statements
- A Term Project
- A Final Essay Experience
There are no quizzes or exams in this course. Regular class attendance is expected, as is active participation in class activities. Participation in any show/s or performance group/s is NOT a course requirement.