I. World History and Culture

D. Asian and Pacific

Chinese Culture and Language
By Janet Lu
A native of Shanghai, China, Lu can speak on a number of topics related to China and its culture, including the social condition, customs, religion, the political system, intercultural communication, history, music, the arts, the education system and both written and spoken language. Lu prefers to speak within a 60-mile radius of Lincoln.

Didgeridoo and Dulcimer, Too
By Robert & Phyllis Dunne
The Dunnes present the unique sounds of the Appalachian Mountain dulcimer and the Australian Aboriginal didgeridoo. The program invites audience participation as the Dunnes describe the representative cultures. The dulcimer and the didgeridoo are known for their characteristic mesmerizing drones. Phyllis focuses on the history behind American folk songs, while Bob shares the legacy of folk tales and traditions. 

Dunne "Dooing" It
By Robert Dunne
Dunne provides a look at traditional Aboriginal culture using such musical instruments as the didgeridoo (an ancient Australian wind instrument made from a tree branch hollowed out by termites), clapsticks and bullroar. 

Encountering China With the Cooks
By Tom & Pat Cook
Tom and Pat Cook taught English for the academic year 1998-99 in the largest university in China, and later taught at another major university near the hometown of Chairman Mao. They are prepared to present and discuss what they learned about a variety of subjects, including the following:

  • The Chinese educational system

  • Did Chinese explorers discover America in 1421?
  • Did Chinese maps help Columbus rediscover America in 1492?
  • Religion and spirituality in China
  • The rise and fall of the Falun Gong movement and the revival of Buddhism
  • Chinese people's feelings about Americans
  • Rapid socioeconomic and cultural changes in China
  • How YOU can teach in China, and how to prepare for it