Taught by: Dr Chand Somaiah
AY 25/26, Sem 2
Content (Structure/Organization):
I find that the curriculum is meticulously structured and gives a comprehensive picture of different kinds of migration in different sociocultural contexts. For me, I achieved the learning objective of broadening my horizons and awareness. I found the literature review assignment and research project taxing to complete, having to repeatedly stress-test my assumptions and emphasise the main ideas of my writing.
Manageability of Workload:
The workload is on the heavier side, with 2 readings of approximately 40 pages each assigned for each week. You are required to comment on these readings and understand about 80% of the main ideas before coming to class, then after the class pose a discussion question on the class Canvas thread. There is a final research project with 30% weightage, a literature review assignment with 15% weightage, a media analysis assignment with 15% weightage, and an ethnography assignment with 15% weightage.
Ease/Difficulty of Attaining Grades:
Getting an A in this course requires long hours of research and consultation. It also requires actively engaging with guest speakers and sharing your ideas in class.
Learning Value/Recommendation:
I learnt so much more about the challenges faced by student migrants, foreign domestic workers, and migrant construction workers, which are more common than I expected. I also gained unique insight into transnational families, where the breadwinners of the family are living and working abroad while the dependents remain in their home country. I even honed my ethnographic observation skills, broadening my capabilities to the social sciences.
About the Instructor:
My professor facilitated class discussions rather effectively, ensuring some level of participation despite the seminars being early in the morning. I felt encouraged and empowered to participate in class, referring frequently to the class readings to phrase my thoughts. My professor also openly provided many useful consultations. However, I did not really internalise a lot of the technical terminology and concepts around migration because the professor conveyed it in a way mostly understandable to a highly academic audience.
Additional Comments/Word of Advice:
Be ready with a topic you are passionate about - you will be spending a lot of time developing these ideas!