WHEN I THINK OF LEARNING ABOUT ASIA, … : STUDENTS’ VIEWS OF ASIA, AND THEIR MOTIVATIONS TOWARDS ASIA-RELATED LEARNING IN TWO AUSTRALIAN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

This study explored secondary students’ views of ‘Asia’, and motivations towards Asia-related learning. Survey, focus group, and Q-methodology factor analysis data showed that although students’ views of ‘Asia’ are complex, the influence of the Australia/Asia binary was prevalent. The factor analysis indicated five distinct perspectives. The perceived utility value of this learning was most prominent among these, though intrinsic interest and attainment value were also evident. With minimal existing data currently available on student attitudes, these results can inform the differentiation of Asia-related teaching in schools to achieve the objectives of the Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia cross-curriculum priority.