ASIA CENTER

Why teach about Asia?

Kentucky students need to learn about Asia to become world-ready citizens.

• Asia is important demographically:  57% of the world's population lives in Asia.
• Asia is important economically: Asian economies represent approximately 1/3 of the World Gross National Product.  Since the early 1980’s the US has done more trade across the Pacific than across the Atlantic. More than 80% of the U.S. global trade deficit is with Asian countries. 
• Asia is important historically:  Asia is the birthplace of four major world religions Hinduism, Buddhism, Shinto, and Confucianism.  Asian civilizations and American concerns have been intertwined through history.
• Asia is important culturally:  Asian societies have made innumerable and fascinating contributions in architecture, art, textiles, landscape, theatre, music, dance, and film.

Asia-knowledge significantly enhances employment prospects, and the opportunities to work internationally.  Students with Asia-knowledge are highly valued in government, in policy analysis, throughout commerce and service industries.

Content about Asia enhances all subject areas including:

• History: American History and World History
• Social Studies: Geography, Philosophy, Political Systems
• Arts and Humanities: Music, Drama
• English, Reading, or Writing
• Vocational  Studies
• English as a Second Language

See the Kentucky Department of Education’s curriculum & assessment documents.
Contact the Asia Center for lesson ideas for your classes.