Contributor :
Luz Antonio
Action Plan
I plan to create a lesson for Global Studies about the tension between modernization and tradition or historic preservation. I want students to analyze the tension between the two in Vietnam, and what the different perspectives are for each. I hope to take a lot of photos that juxtapose the new vs. the old, like the markets in the cities against the super malls, or tourism vs. the preservation of historical sites. I would like students to wrestle with the question of modernization throughout the course, with Vietnam being one example to explore.
Pre-Departure Preparation
I’d need to research what has been done in terms of historic preservation, look at the UNESCO sites in Vietnam and how Vietnam is dealing with economic progress. I need to also research if there is currently such debates going on in the country and where those are.
Preparation During Travel
Since we will be visiting many historic sites as part of the trip, I want to ensure I use some of my free time to visit the modernized or heavily tourist areas. I also want to interview locals, although I think this will be a bit challenging, but I’m going to go on at least one walking tour with a local so that might be one way to hear those voices. I also will be on the lookout for possible artifacts that could show the old vs. the new.