Outline

Overview

This unit considers Southeast Asia as an interconnected region that has been shaped and reshaped by cross-border relationships. Taking a multidisciplinary approach, it examines topics including historical and religious connections, capital and labour, environmental disasters, medical tourism and popular culture. Students will analyse these various forms of transnationalism and their influence in different Southeast Asian societies. By focusing on these regional dynamics rather than country-specific contexts, they will develop an understanding of Southeast Asia as a region constituted not only as a series of nation-states but by ongoing processes of connection, mobility and exchange.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Asian Studies
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	(12 credit points at 1000 level in Asian Studies or Sociology or Politics or International Relations) or (12 credit points at 1000 or 2000 or 3000 level in Indonesian Studies)
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Benni Hasbiyalloh, benni.hasbiyalloh@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Benni Hasbiyalloh, benni.hasbiyalloh@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 August 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Out-of-class quiz	Getting started Online multiple-choice quiz on Week 1 concepts and readings	2%	Week 02 Due date: 12 Aug 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 12 Aug 2026	100 words equivalent	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written test	Mid-semester test In-class written test on Weeks 1 to 7 (1,500 words equivalent)	30%	Week 08 Due date: 22 Sep 2026 at 08:00	1.5 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-person written or creative task	Final in-class test In-class written test on the whole unit (2,000 words equivalent)	50%	Week 13 Due date: 03 Nov 2026 at 08:00	2 hours (2000 words equivalent)	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Weekly reading quizzes Nine online quizzes on the two set readi	18%	Weekly	9 x 100 words equivalent	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Complete a short multiple-choice quiz in Canvas on the Week 1 lecture and the set readings. The quiz is marked automatically, so you see your result immediately. It is worth 2% and is the unit's early feedback task. Its purpose is to tell you, before the census date, whether you are keeping pace with the reading. If the result is lower than you expected, come to consultation hours in Week 3.
Complete nine online quizzes in Canvas, one in each of Weeks 3 to 7 and Weeks 9 to 12. Each quiz asks multiple-choice questions on that week's two compulsory readings and is worth 2%. Each quiz closes at 11.59 pm on the Wednesday, so the reading needs to be done before the Thursday tutorial. Quizzes are marked automatically. There is no quiz in Week 8. Guidance on using generative AI in the quizzes is on Canvas.
Sit a 1.5 hour written test on Tuesday 22 September, 8am to 10am. The test covers Weeks 1 to 7 and combines short answers with longer extended answers. You will be asked to apply the unit's key theoretical perspectives to Southeast Asian cases from the lectures and tutorials. This is a supervised, in-person test. Notes, devices and generative AI tools are not permitted.
Sit a 2 hour written test on Tuesday 3 November, 8am to 10am. The test covers the whole unit and combines short answers with longer extended answers, including one question asking you to frame and justify a research inquiry into a transnational problem in Southeast Asia. This is a supervised, in-person test. Notes, devices and generative AI tools are not permitted.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Comprehensive command of Southeast Asia as an interconnected region. Answers apply the unit's theoretical perspectives precisely to particular cases, show where a perspective does not fit, and draw on material beyond the compulsory readings. Arguments are well structured and supported by well-chosen evidence.
Distinction	75 - 84	Strong command of the material. Answers apply the theoretical perspectives accurately to particular cases and use the compulsory readings well. Arguments are clear and supported, with some independent judgement about the limits of the concepts used.
Credit	65 - 74	Sound understanding of the key concepts and cases. Answers use the compulsory readings and apply the theoretical perspectives correctly, though the application usually stays close to examples given in lectures and tutorials.
Pass	50 - 64	Basic understanding of the key concepts and cases. Answers identify relevant material and make some use of the compulsory readings, but the use of theory is descriptive, limited, or partly inaccurate.
Fail	0 - 49	Requirements not met. Answers are substantially incomplete or misunderstand the key concepts and cases.
Absent fail	0 - 49	Awarded when the unit is failed because compulsory assessment tasks were not attempted, rather than because the work attempted fell short of the required standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

The standard late penalty above does not apply to any assessment in this unit, because none of them accepts late submission. Quizzes: each quiz closes in Canvas at the time shown in the assessment table. A quiz not completed before it closes receives a mark of zero. Late submission is prohibited. Mid-semester test and final exam: both are supervised and sat at a scheduled time, so late submission does not arise. Students unable to attend should apply for special consideration.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Conceptualising transnationalism in Southeast Asia	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 01	Conceptualising transnationalism in Southeast Asia	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 02	Historical connections	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	Historical connections	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 03	Religious connections	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 03	Religious connections	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 04	A borderless economy?	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 04	A borderless economy?	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 05	Medical mobilities and biopiracy	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	Medical mobilities and biopiracy	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 06	Diasporic networks	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 06	Diasporic networks	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 07	Boundary-crossing in popular culture	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 07	Boundary-crossing in popular culture	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 08	Mid-semester in-class test	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 08	Student consultation	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 09	Online communities and virtual connections	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 09	Online communities and virtual connections	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 10	Transnational activist networks	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 10	Transnational activist networks	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 11	Crossing borders for a better life	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 11	Crossing borders for a better life	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 12	Transnational environmental challenges and solutions	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 12	Transnational environmental challenges and solutions	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 13	Final in-class test	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 13	Student consultation	Tutorial (1 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance at lectures and tutorials is expected. The Thursday tutorial discusses each week's two compulsory readings, which the tests draw on.
The mid-semester test and the final exam are held at scheduled times and must be attended in person.
Students unable to attend a test or exam should apply for special consideration.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

There is no set textbook for this unit. Two compulsory readings are set for each teaching week. Both are examinable and form the basis of that week's online quiz.

All readings for this unit are available on Canvas.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Demonstrate a nuanced understanding of Southeast Asia as a region
LO2. Independently access and evaluate primary and secondary sources that relate to Southeast Asian transnationalism
LO3. Critically analyse and formulate arguments about the impact of different transnationalisms in Southeast Asia
LO4. Engage with, and apply, different concepts and theoretical perspectives to Southeast Asian case studies
LO5. Identify, define, investigate, and think critically and independently about critical problems in contemporary Southeast Asia
LO6. Apply appropriate professional and ethical standards to academic research and inquiry in Asian Studies

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

This is the first time this unit has been offered.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

ASNS2666: Southeast Asian Transnationalisms

Semester 2, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links