Professor: Inouye Course format: Seminar Number of respondents: 16 Total Enrollment: 16 Class Composition: Froshs: 14 Sophs: 2 Jrs: 0 Srs: 0 Concs: 0 Non-Concs: 12 Don't Know: 4

Instructor Average: 1.73 Course Average: 1.64

Before you identify someone as an 'Asian American', have you pondered what does 'Asian American' really mean, if it is at all a legitimate social category? 'What is Asian America' examines the origin of this category and attempts to determine whether it is a viable concept. You don't need any prerequisites for the course, and you don't have to be an Asian American either.

Students all agree that Professor Inouye is an excellent facilitator in discussion, which is the major format of the course. They feel that she approached controversial topics fairly and maturely. Students noted that she seldom divulged her political stance, if at all. According to the majority of respondents, she was quite receptive and welcomed a multifaceted discussion. Most importantly, she often challenged students' responses so that they could critically evaluate their ideas. A few students even said that Professor Inouye played the role of 'Devil's Advocate' so as to provoke pupil's thoughts. Although one participant felt that the class over-analyzed carious issues and never found an answer, all agreed that the discussions were stimulating, even on a lackadaisical Friday afternoon.

There were two six to eight page papers and a ten page final paper. There was also a small presentation. Some survey correspondents indicate that the background readings on historical perspectives were particularly useful, while others maintained that some of the presented theories were vague and overly abstract. However, the nice array of readings helped to create a complex and comprehensive depiction of the subject matter.

No participants spent more than five hours per week on work attributable to this course. Of course, it was not the case when papers were due; as such times required a substantial time commitment. Overall, this course served as an excellent introduction to the area under discussion. Consequently, most participants agreed taking this class broadens not only ones knowledge of the 'Asian American' but ones manner of thinking in general. If this sounds even remotely intriguing, take this course and be prepared to come out of it with an awaken consciousness.

View AC/0019 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.