Half the world's Muslims live in South Asia. Three of the worlds biggest Muslim population - India, Pakistan and Bangladesh - are in our study region.  The latter two, in particular, are sites of major social instability and security concern. The security and welfare of  South Asia, and by implication, much of the rest of the world including Australia, will depend largely on the future trajectories of these states. Better understanding of Islam in South Asia is essential if we are to make the most of the challenges and opportunities it presents.

The objective of this course is the study of Islam, Muslims and Muslim society in the South Asian environment, with a focus on contemporary trends and issues. Since the 19th century, there has been a tendency for commentators to treat Islam in South Asia (and indeed globally) as a monolithic religious, social and historical phenomenon.  This course will challenge these preconceptions. The reality is that Islam in South Asia- as elsewhere in the world - takes many different forms. We will begins with a historical outline of Islam in South Asia as this provides the key to understanding the challenges we face today.

In recognition of the heavy study and work loads bourne by many students, this course will be flexibly delivered. The facilititors will provide a comprehensive, supportive online framework to enable student-focussed learning. Students will be free to learn through exploration of a wide range of historical, literary and theoretical texts and document.

This course will be taught collaboratively by Dr McComas Taylor and Dr Rizwan Hussain.

Weekly learning tasks (70%)

1. Theory reading (10%)

2. Mind-map (10%)

3.'Living account' - literary reading (10%)

4. Literary response (10%)

5. 'Read and respond' - peer assessment and review (10%)

6. 90-minute workshop (10%)

7. 'Famous Last Words' - academic journal entry (10%)

Substantial Creative project (30%)

Many include essay, website, creative writing, audio-visual presentation, etc.,
to be determined in consultation with facilitators.