HIST-191 - Eastern Civilization I - Christian Beam

Introduction

My name is Christian Beam, and my title is Professor Beam, however, my students usually refer to me simply as “Beam.” Over the last 30 years I have enjoyed teaching at both the high school and community college level in Southern California. I also instruct online courses in US, World, Western Civilization, US Technology and Society and Women’s History at Moorpark College and College of the Canyons. In addition to college instruction, I spent many years teaching Advanced Placement Courses in Human Geography, US Government and Politics, US history, European and World History. I have also taught many Humanities and Social/Political Justice courses, ran outdoor education programs in river rafting, been an academic and class adviser and have run many student clubs and organizations over the years including Model United Nations, Varsity Club, Culinary Club, Japan Club, and Junior Statesmen of America.

Course Description

This fully online asynchronous survey examines Asian civilizations from antiquity to the nineteenth century, including philosophical and social environments and cultural and political trends. The course focuses primarily on China and Japan while also examining Korea, India, and Southeast Asia. Students investigate the development of major political systems, religious traditions, philosophical schools, social structures, and cultural achievements that shaped Asia from the earliest civilizations through the nineteenth century. Through primary source analysis, discussions, multimedia content, and historical inquiry, students will develop an understanding of both regional diversity and interconnected cultural traditions across Asia.

What to Expect in this Course

Together, we will investigate the development of major political systems, religious traditions, philosophical schools, social structures, and cultural achievements that defined Asia across centuries. Through the analysis of primary sources, discussions, multimedia content, and historical inquiry, you will gain a deeper understanding of both the diversity of individual regions and the interconnected traditions that have linked Asian societies over time.

Types of Assessments

Students may anticipate online exams, quizzes, discussion boards, primary source analysis and written assignments.

Textbook Information

There is no textbook required for this course. All course readings, resources, and instructional materials will be provided as Open Educational Resources (OER) at no cost to you. They will be embedded into the course modules.

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 08/19/2026 Sub#: 2079 Sub ID: 219046