Preface:

Beginning with the larger history of Asian American immi-gration to the U.S., this seminar explored the issues that Asian American students may grapple with in their homes and in their schools. We looked at the incredible growth of the Asian American population in the last ten years and its diversity in terms of countries of origin, socioeconomic background, immigrations circumstances, and religion and culture. The class considered Asian American academic experiences and the explanations proposed for successes and challenges in the U.S. education system. We explored the origins of the “model minority” stereotype and focus on its ramifications for students currently, particularly for Asian American students’ mental health. We also consid-ered supplementary tutoring, competitions and “shadow” education, and debates about whether affirmative action benefits or harms Asian American students in the college admission process.