Open Forum on American Studies at The University of Hong Kong The School of Modern Languages and Cultures would like to invite you to an Open Forum on the future direction of American Studies at The University of Hong Kong. The discussion is aimed at building a strong, focused and successful multidisciplinary program in preparation for the introduction of the new 4-year curriculum in 2012. Date: 13 November 2009 (Friday) Time: 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm Venue: T3, Meng Wah Complex Moderator: Mr. John Young The following questions are intended only as possible starting points for discussion. We invite all your views, questions and concerns. 1. What direction should American Studies take? How can we balance the benefits of interdisciplinary learning and teaching with the need to offer students a program with a clear and coherent focus? 2. Would the American Studies program benefit from an increase in the range of its course offerings, greater input from program stakeholders, the provision of student support services and job placement opportunities, further collaborations with Mainland and foreign universities? 3. What impact will the new 4-year curriculum have on the existing American Studies program? 4. How can the American Studies program benefit from its joining European Studies to form a West Studies Division? Mr. John Young teaches in the University's Journalism and Media Studies Centre and is an Honorary Lecturer in American Studies in the School of Modern Languages and Cultures. In order to facilitate follow-up discussions, the Forum will be digitally recorded. All are welcome. Refreshments will be served after the Forum. For enquiries, please contact Ms. Zena Cheung at zcheung@hku.hk. |